Lately, I’ve developed a fascination with edible flowers. The possibilities they offer and their health benefits are simply astounding. Recently, I purchased some Dianthus chiba strawberry plants (a type of carnation) and nestled them among my cos lettuce, sunflowers, and nasturtiums in the garden.
While brewing teas with edible flowers is always enjoyable, I was craving something more refreshing and sparkling today. Hence, I whipped up a batch of carnation simple syrup with Dianthus chiba strawberry fresh petals and decided to serve it in a champagne glass for added flair. So fun!
The name Dianthus is derived from the Greek meaning “flower of the gods”. “dios” (meaning god) and “anthos” (meaning flower).
What kind of plant is a Dianthus chiba strawberry?
The Dianthus chiba strawberry plant is a variety of carnation known for its vibrant pink flowers and delightful strawberry-like fragrance. It belongs to the Dianthus genus and is prized for its ornamental beauty as well as its culinary versatility.
The plant produces clusters of fragrant flowers that resemble strawberries, hence the name “Chiba Strawberry.” Dianthus chiba strawberry plants are typically grown in gardens or containers and are cherished for their attractive blooms, which add colour and charm to outdoor spaces.
Additionally, the petals of the Dianthus chiba strawberry flowers are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and beverages, adding a unique flavour and visual appeal to culinary creations. Overall, the Dianthus chiba strawberry plant is a delightful addition to any garden or landscape, offering both aesthetic beauty and culinary possibilities.
What is a Simple Syrup?
Simple syrup is a versatile sweetener commonly used in cocktails, beverages, and desserts. It is made by dissolving granulated sugar in water over heat until the sugar crystals completely dissolve, resulting in a clear liquid with a sweet taste and smooth texture. The ratio of sugar to water can vary depending on the desired sweetness level, but a common ratio is equal parts sugar and water.
Simple syrup is prized for its ability to easily incorporate into cold beverages without the need to dissolve sugar crystals, making it ideal for sweetening iced teas, lemonades, and cocktails. It is also used in baking and dessert recipes to add sweetness and moisture without altering the texture of the final product.
One of the key benefits of simple syrup is its versatility and ease of customisation. It can be infused with various flavours, such as herbs, spices, fruits, or edible flowers, to add depth and complexity to beverages and dishes. Additionally, simple syrup can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for several weeks, making it a convenient staple to have on hand for impromptu culinary creations.
In the case of Dianthus chiba strawberry simple syrup, the addition of fresh Dianthus chiba petals infuses the syrup with a delightful fruity and floral flavour, elevating it to a whole new level of taste and sophistication. Whether used to sweeten sparkling water, cocktails, or desserts, simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to any culinary creation.
To make a Simple Syrup with edible flowers, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- Fresh Dianthus chiba petals: These delicate petals add a subtle floral aroma and flavour to the syrup.
- Water: Used to simmer the fresh petals and extract their flavours.
- Sugar: Sweetens the syrup and helps preserve it.
Dianthus chiba strawberry carnation health benefits:
While Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations are primarily grown for their ornamental beauty and culinary versatility, they also offer some potential health benefits. Here are a few:
- Antioxidant Properties: Like many fruits and flowers, Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest that certain compounds found in carnations, including eugenol and quercetin, may possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Digestive Health: Carnations have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support digestive health. The flowers are believed to have carminative properties, meaning they may help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas.
- Emotional Well-being: The sight and scent of fresh flowers, including carnations, have been shown to have mood-boosting effects and may help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Incorporating Dianthus Chiba Strawberry carnations into your surroundings can create a calming and uplifting atmosphere.
- Skin Health: Some skincare products contain extracts of carnation flowers due to their potential benefits for the skin. Carnations are believed to have astringent and antimicrobial properties, which may help cleanse and tone the skin, reduce excess oil production, and prevent acne breakouts.
- Respiratory Support: In traditional medicine, carnations have been used to alleviate respiratory symptoms, such as coughs and congestion. The flowers are believed to have expectorant properties, which may help loosen mucus and promote easier breathing.
Carnations have been used for medicinal purposes in various cultures for centuries. As with any herbal remedy, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using carnations or any other botanical for medicinal purposes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Simple Syrup with Fresh Flowers Recipe Instructions:
- Rinse the Dianthus chiba petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Remove the green stems from the fresh petals.
- In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolved.
- Add the Dianthus chiba fresh petals to the mixture.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the petals, pressing down gently to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely before transferring it to a clean glass bottle or jar.
The flowers are used as an essential oil and is considered a stress reliever with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Enjoying the Syrup:
Once the simple syrup with fresh flowers is ready, there are countless ways to enjoy it:
- Sparkling Soda: Mix a generous splash of syrup with sparkling water for a refreshing and effervescent beverage.
- Lemonade: Combine syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice and water for a zesty and thirst-quenching lemonade.
- Spritzer: Add a drizzle of syrup to a glass of chilled white wine or prosecco for a delightful summer spritzer.
- Syrup: Use the syrup as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt.
Pro Tip: Your simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 months.
Other floral inspired simple syrup recipes:
- Tulip Syrup: Use 1 cup of tulip petals.
- Rose Syrup: Use 2 cups of rose petals.
- Carnation Syrup: Use 1 cup of carnation petals.
- Lavender Syrup: Use 3 tablespoons of lavender buds.
- Orchid Syrup: Use 1 ½ cups orchid petals.
- Pansy Syrup: Use 1 cup of pansy petals.
Reasons to choose Dianthus?
Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations offer a range of benefits beyond their delightful appearance and sweet fragrance. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Culinary Versatility: Dianthus chiba strawberry petals are edible and can be incorporated into various culinary creations, adding a unique flavour and visual appeal to dishes. From salads and desserts to beverages and garnishes, these versatile petals offer endless possibilities in the kitchen.
- Nutritional Value: Like other edible flowers, Dianthus chiba strawberry petals contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and well-being. Incorporating these petals into your diet can provide a nutrient boost and support a balanced and nutritious lifestyle.
- Floral Aroma and Flavour: Dianthus chiba strawberry petals possess a delicate floral aroma and a subtle sweet flavour reminiscent of strawberries. Adding these petals to dishes and beverages enhances their taste and aroma, creating a delightful sensory experience for the palate.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With their vibrant pink colour and ruffled petals, Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations add a pop of colour and visual interest to any dish or arrangement. Whether used as a garnish or a focal point, these beautiful flowers elevate the presentation of culinary creations and make them more visually appealing.
- Mood-Boosting Properties: The sight and scent of fresh flowers have been shown to have mood-boosting effects, promoting feelings of happiness, relaxation, and well-being. Incorporating Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations into your meals and surroundings can uplift your spirits and enhance your overall mood.
- Garden Beauty: Beyond their culinary and aesthetic benefits, Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations make charming additions to garden beds, borders, and containers. Their compact growth habit, attractive foliage, and abundant blooms make them ideal for adding colour and beauty to outdoor spaces.
Overall, Dianthus chiba strawberry carnations are not only visually stunning but also offer a range of culinary, nutritional, and mood-boosting benefits. Incorporating these delightful flowers into your diet and surroundings can enhance your culinary creations, promote wellness, and add beauty to your home and garden.
What does the Dianthus flower taste like?
The taste of Dianthus flowers can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions, but generally, they have a mild, slightly sweet flavour with subtle floral undertones. Some varieties may have hints of spice or clove-like notes. The petals are delicate and have a tender texture, making them ideal for adding a decorative touch to culinary creations or infusing beverages with a subtle floral flavour. Overall, Dianthus flowers contribute a unique and pleasant taste to dishes and drinks, enhancing their visual appeal and adding a touch of elegance to the dining experience.
The Dianthus chiba strawberry simple syrup is sure to become a favourite addition to your summer beverage repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own as a sparkling soda or mixed into cocktails and mocktails, this delightful syrup captures the essence of summer in every sip. Try making a batch today and elevate your summer refreshments to new heights of flavour and enjoyment!
What is the Symbolic Meaning of the Dianthus Flower?
The Dianthus flower holds various symbolic meanings depending on cultural and historical contexts. Generally, it is associated with sentiments of love, affection, gratitude, and admiration. The flower’s name, Dianthus, translates to “divine flower” or “flower of the gods,” which underscores its significance and beauty.
Additionally, the term “Dianthus” is derived from Greek words, with “dios” meaning “divine” and “anthos” meaning “flower.” The plant’s epithet, “bearded,” may refer to the beard-like growth found at the center of each blossom, adding to its symbolism.
In Victorian times, different colours of Dianthus flowers were used to convey specific messages, with red symbolizing love and admiration, pink representing affection and gratitude, and white signifying purity and innocence. Overall, the Dianthus flower is cherished for its elegance, fragrance, and rich symbolism, making it a beloved choice in gardens, bouquets, and floral arrangements around the world.
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Recipe
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing drink that is infused with the delicate floral notes of edible flowers. A sweet and aromatic syrup made from fresh dianthus chiba strawberry petals.

Pick a cup full of dianthus chiba fresh petals from your garden.
Rinse the dianthus chiba petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Remove the green stems from the dianthus chiba petals.
In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Until the sugar has dissolved.
Add the dianthus chiba fresh petals to the mixture and simmer for another 5 minutes over low heat. Turn the heat off.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 minutes minimum, or until the dianthus chiba fresh petals are soft and the petals have infused their flavour and colour into the liquid.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flower petals, pressing down gently to extract as much liquid as possible.
Once the syrup has cooled completely, transfer it to a clean glass bottle or jar.
Mix a generous splash of syrup with sparkling water for a refreshing and effervescent beverage.
Or combine syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice and water for a zesty and thirst-quenching lemonade.
Or add a drizzle of syrup to a glass of chilled white wine or prosecco for a delightful summer spritzer.
Or use the syrup as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt.
Enjoy! 🙂
Ingredients
Directions
Pick a cup full of dianthus chiba fresh petals from your garden.
Rinse the dianthus chiba petals under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Remove the green stems from the dianthus chiba petals.
In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Until the sugar has dissolved.
Add the dianthus chiba fresh petals to the mixture and simmer for another 5 minutes over low heat. Turn the heat off.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 minutes minimum, or until the dianthus chiba fresh petals are soft and the petals have infused their flavour and colour into the liquid.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flower petals, pressing down gently to extract as much liquid as possible.
Once the syrup has cooled completely, transfer it to a clean glass bottle or jar.
Mix a generous splash of syrup with sparkling water for a refreshing and effervescent beverage.
Or combine syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice and water for a zesty and thirst-quenching lemonade.
Or add a drizzle of syrup to a glass of chilled white wine or prosecco for a delightful summer spritzer.
Or use the syrup as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt.
Enjoy! 🙂
12 Comments
Lauren Maker
April 7, 2024 at 10:57 amSuch a delightful treat with so many wonderful and delicious advantages! Thank you for sharing this, I am going to make this soon!
Gypsy
April 7, 2024 at 11:02 amAaaaaw you are the sweetest! <3 Trying to keep things simple. Hence 'simple syrup'! 😀
Ginger
April 8, 2024 at 1:49 pmThis is such a unique and interesting recipe with so many healthy benefits too. Plus, it does look delicious! Thanks for sharing!😊
Gypsy
April 8, 2024 at 2:07 pmThank you so much Ginger. 🙂
pedja
April 8, 2024 at 2:51 pmNeer heard of this plant before. It looks fantastic. And the juice must be delicious too. Thanks for sharing!
Gypsy
April 8, 2024 at 2:54 pmIt really is delicious. Tastes a bit like cloves. 🙂
Twinsparkle
April 8, 2024 at 7:42 pmThat looks so yummy! I am heading downstairs to make it right now!
Gypsy
May 2, 2024 at 1:28 pmHahahaha. Adorable. 😀
Amy Mayfield-Beyer
April 9, 2024 at 1:00 amI absolutely love this post! There are so many edible flowers great for making syrups, teas, jellies, etcetera. Thanx for sharing your recipe.
Gypsy
May 2, 2024 at 1:27 pmAbsolutely agree. Edible flowers are wonderful and a slight obsession for me at the moment. 🙂
Vaishali
April 9, 2024 at 3:14 pmThis turned out so good. Loved the floral notes
Gypsy
April 22, 2024 at 3:19 pmThank you Vaishali. 🙂