Edible Flowers Your Reptiles Will Love
When looking at a beautiful flower, many people’s first thoughts are probably not how much their pet would also enjoy the flower! But why not treat our pet reptiles to a diverse and delectable array of edible flowers? Beyond feeding your reptile a variety of veggies and fruits, incorporating beautiful blossoms can offer both nutrition and enrichment for reptiles like bearded dragons and tortoises! From roses to lavender, hibiscus to violets, here's a list of edible flowers that will add a burst of color and flavor to your reptile's menu!
Ensure that any flowers or buds you are feeding are free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers before offering them as a special treat for your reptiles!
Rose
Delicate and fragrant, rose petals are not only visually appealing but also rich in vitamins. Make sure to check for any thorns before offering roses to your pet!
Hibiscus
High in antioxidants and vitamin C, hibiscus flowers are a tropical delight for your reptile friends. The petals can be offered fresh or dried, meaning you can harvest and dry the flowers for a special treat, even long after the blooming season has ended!
Dandelion
Common dandelions are a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. The entire plant is edible, including the vibrant yellow flowers. Just be sure to pick them from pesticide-free areas!
Clover
Clover flowers (both white AND purple) are a great source of fiber and can add variety to your reptile's diet. These dainty blossoms are rich in nutrients and are easily found and foraged from lawns or gardens.
Zinnia
Bright and cheerful, zinnias offer a burst of color while providing a moderate amount of vitamins and minerals. These petals can be an occasional snack for your reptiles.
Marigold
Marigolds not only add a pop of orange to your reptile's diet, but also contain natural compounds that may promote digestive health and provide a dose of beneficial antioxidants.
Cosmos
These delicate flowers come in various shades and contain trace minerals and vitamins that can enhance your reptile’s diet.
Geranium
With their distinctive aroma, geranium flowers are a tasty and aromatic treat for reptiles. They provide a delightful change of pace from the regular diet, and offer unique olfactory enrichment for your pet!
Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are known for their soothing properties. Offering them to your reptiles can create a calming snack while providing potential digestive benefits.
African Violet
African violets produce beautiful edible flowers that can provide a touch of elegance and nutrition to your reptile's diet. African Violets are known for being easy to grow and bloom indoors, which means they make a lovely addition to a bioactive enclosure (with the knowledge that your reptile may turn the plant into an all-you-can-eat buffet!)
Lavender
Lavender flowers are not only fragrant but also offer potential relaxation benefits. These flowers can be a flavorful addition to your reptile's diet.
Jasmine
Jasmine flowers can add a delightful aroma and taste to your reptile's menu.
Impatiens
Impatiens come in many different colors, and their vibrant blooms can be a refreshing treat.
Violet
Violets come in various shades, not only purple, and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. These dainty flowers can be a nutritious snack.
Rose of Sharon
Similar to hibiscus, the rose of Sharon flowers are not only pleasing to the eye but also provide a range of nutrients and antioxidants for your reptiles.
Pansy
Pansies showcase a spectrum of colors and offer a medley of vitamins and minerals. These charming flowers can be enjoyed by your reptilian friends in moderation.
Take your reptile's diet to the next level with a variety of edible flowers! Remember to offer these flowers in moderation and ensure they are sourced from safe, pesticide-free environments. By adding these vibrant blooms to your reptile's menu, you'll not only provide a nourishing treat but also enhance their sensory experience as well!
To learn more about reptile care, check out our Zen Care Sheets and Articles section!
