Daylily Flowers: A Beautiful Wild Edible & Delicious Recipe for Stuffed Daylilies

Why Daylilies Are Good for You

Daylily flowers aren’t just pretty—they are packed with nutrients and health benefits. Here’s why you should consider adding them to your plate:

1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Daylilies are a great source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and vision. They also contain minerals like iron and potassium.

2. Low in Calories, High in Fiber

These flowers are naturally low in calories and contain dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and supports gut health.

3. Antioxidant Properties

Daylilies are rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids, which help protect your cells from oxidative stress. Flavonoids are plant compounds that have been linked to reduced inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers.

4. Traditional Uses

In traditional medicine, daylilies have been used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as to promote relaxation.

How to Identify Daylilies

Before you head out to harvest, it’s important to make sure you’ve correctly identified daylilies. Here are a few key features to look for:

• Flowers: Daylily flowers are trumpet-shaped, typically with six petals (three petals and three sepals). They come in various colors, but orange and yellow are the most common.

• Leaves: The leaves are long, slender, and grow in a fan-like arrangement from the base of the plant. They are smooth and have no serrated edges.

• Stem: The flower stalks (scapes) are tall, leafless, and can hold multiple blooms. Each flower lasts only one day, hence the name “daylily.”

• Roots: Daylilies grow from a mass of thick, tuberous roots. These roots are edible but are not the focus of this recipe.

Where to Find Daylilies

Daylilies are incredibly hardy and can often be found in a variety of locations:

• Gardens and Landscapes: Daylilies are popular ornamental plants and are commonly grown in home gardens and public spaces.

• Roadsides and Fields: They frequently grow wild along roadsides, in meadows, and in sunny, open fields.

• Near Water Sources: Daylilies thrive in moist soil, so you may also find them near streams, ponds, or other water sources.

⚠️ Caution: Be sure you’re harvesting Hemerocallis daylilies and not true lilies (Lilium species), as some true lilies are toxic. If you’re unsure, consult a local plant expert or guidebook.

Stuffed Daylily Flowers Recipe

Now that you’ve identified your daylilies, let’s turn them into a delicious appetizer! This recipe combines the delicate floral flavor of daylilies with a creamy, garlicky goat cheese stuffing.

Ingredients:

• 12 fresh daylily flowers (cleaned and gently rinsed)

• 4 oz goat cheese

• 1 clove garlic (minced)

• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)

• 2 tbsp Greek plain yogurt

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: Olive oil or melted butter for brushing

Instructions

1. Gently rinse the daylily flowers in cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Carefully remove the stamens from inside each flower, being cautious not to damage the petals.

2. In a medium bowl, mix the goat cheese, minced garlic, dill, yogurt, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.

3. Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each daylily flower with the goat cheese mixture. Garnish with chopped fresh dill.

4. Arrange the stuffed daylilies on a serving plate and enjoy them fresh!

They’re perfect as a light appetizer or a unique addition to a summer gathering.

TIP: Daylily flowers are best enjoyed fresh, as they wilt quickly after picking.

Conclusion

Daylilies are a true gift from nature—beautiful to look at, delicious to eat, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a gardener, forager, or foodie, this versatile wild edible deserves a spot on your plate.

I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these Stuffed Daylily Flowers as much as I do. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your creations!

Happy cooking! 🌸