• Pansies are one of many edible flowers.pansy image by Aidairi from Fotolia.com
  
  

Pansies Are Edible

• Before picking pansies to eat, make sure they have not been sprayed with pesticides.pansy image by Aidairi from Fotolia.com
  
  Pansies are not only safe to eat, but have a sweet, minty flavor. The Iowa State University Extension Service suggests using them in punches, fruit salads or "candy for decorating cakes and pies." Iowa State also says the petals can be used to color butter.
  
  

Beware of Chemicals

• While pansies are widely recognized as an edible flower, take care to make sure they are free from harmful pesticides. The Iowa State University Extension Service also warns against picking and eating flowers growing by a road. Furthermore, you shouldn't eat pansies if you have allergies, like hay fever or asthma.
  
  

Bottom Line

• Experts recommend picking pansies in the morning, once the dew has dried. Eat the petals within a few hours, and be sure to wash them first. Also, Iowa State University says you should remove the stamens and pistils from the flowers for the best taste.