Botanical Garnishes
Thyme’s productive gardens are more abundant than ever before. Here Head Gardener Daryll shares five edible flowers you can grow in your garden this summer.
Elderflower
The dainty white blossom of the elderberry tree, Sambucus Nigra, grows wild in the woodlands and hedgerows of England.
We grow a beautiful variety here at Thyme, Sambucus Nigra ‘Black Lace’ known for its serrated burgundy leaves and light pink blossom, the fragrance of which fills the air during early summer.
We love to pick these delicate flowers to make cordials, cocktails, jellies and jams, bringing their heady scent to our menus: they are the very essence of summer. (We’ve even designed a bedroom at Thyme in its honour!)
2. Nasturtium, Calendula and Marigold
These vibrant, easy-to-grow flowers bring both colour and purpose to the garden. You’ll find their edible petals scattered over summer dishes in the Ox Barn (the Duck breast, courgettes & onion with a peppery nasturtium salsa verde is not to be missed). Perfect for companion planting too, Daryll likes to plant these joyous flowers to deter pests from other plants in the garden - beautiful and useful!
3. Chamomile
Chamomile is a charming herb with dainty white flowers and a sweet, apple-like scent. It adds softness and fragrance to garden borders while attracting an array of pollinators. Known for its calming properties, chamomile is a signature ingredient of our homemade herbal teas served in the Meadow Spa and around the Thyme estate. (It also makes an appearance in our Herbal Elixir cocktail.)
4. Squash Blossom & Courgette Flowers
These golden flowers bring delight to all who visit the kitchen gardens. With a lightly sweet flavour, they are perfect for stuffing, frying or adding to salads. It’s an Ox Barn favourite.
5. Alliums & Chives
Both member of the onion family, alliums and chives are low-maintenance and perennial with delightfully edible flowers! While alliums produce bold, globe-shaped flowers, chives flowers are more daintier and star-shaped: both are lovely sprinkled as a colourful garnish.