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A delicious surprise from the red safflower tree: Did you know that its flowers and seeds are edible?
Cercis canadensis, commonly known as the Eastern Red Flower Tree, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to eastern North America. It is known for its beautiful flowers and is often eaten for its edible properties. Ignored. The tree can grow up to 20 to 30 feet tall and has extensive branches. Its flowers, which bloom in spring and range in color from light to dark pink, add a lot of color to many gardens.
In some areas, the brightly colored flowers of the red flower tree attract many insects, especially long-tongued bees, for pollination.
In addition to its elegant flowers, the red flower tree also has edible parts, such as its flowers and mature seeds. These parts are consumed as food in certain areas of Appalachia and in Native American cultures. The flowers of the safflower tree can be eaten raw or fried, and in some places locals even use its green shoots to season game, these habits show the extraordinary diversity of the safflower tree.
Ecological benefits of safflower trees
As part of the ecosystem, the leaves of the Oriental Red Flower Tree are also a source of food for certain moths (such as Henry's moth, Red Flower Leaf Broken Moth, etc.), and these insects play an important role in nature. In addition, the presence of safflower trees helps nourish the land and improves the habitat of surrounding organisms.
Oriental Redwood Tree This tree often grows as a primary secondary tree in mixed forests and hedges.
Cultivation of safflower trees
The red safflower tree is widely planted in parks and gardens and has spawned several cultivars. Popular cultivars include ‘Forest Pansy’ and ‘Ruby Falls’, which are prized for their attractive purple foliage and provide a brilliant change of colour in the autumn. These varieties are undoubtedly a highlight in garden design.
In the United States, the growth of the eastern saffron tree is limited, especially in the arid West, making its cultivation more challenging. In Columbus, Wisconsin, locals successfully cultivated a red flower tree called the "Columbus strain", and its seeds became the main source of local nurseries.
Diverse Uses
The use of the flowers and seeds of the Oriental safflower tree as food has made the value of this tree more diverse. In some areas of Southern Appalachia, locals use the green branches of the safflower tree as a seasoning and even to flavor game, a habit that has led to the tree being called the spice tree. In addition, studies have shown that safflower tree flower extracts contain anthocyanins, while seeds contain a variety of fatty acids.
ConclusionAcademic research results show that the edible parts of the safflower tree have certain nutritional value, and this characteristic has attracted more and more attention.
The Oriental safflower tree is a beautiful and functional plant. In addition to its beauty, its edible nature makes it a current choice that combines both aesthetics and practicality. Whether as an ornamental plant or as part of a healthy diet, this tree is worth our rediscovery and exploration. Have you ever considered introducing these edible trees into your life to add a fresh surprise to your diet?
