Tangerine Gem Citrus Flowers
Estimated Inventory, 100 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Tangerine Citrus Gems are small, edible Marigold flowers. As its name suggests, the petals of the flowers are a bright tangerine orange. Each Tangerine Citrus Gems flower ranges between 1 to 3 centimeters in diameter and consists of five heart-shaped petals. The plant it grows on can reach heights up to 30 centimeters. The soft petals have a deep orange center that surround a golden-colored core known as the capitulum or floral head. The flowers have a lemon-like aroma and a mild citrus flavor with hints of spice and
Seasons/Availability
Tangerine Citrus Gem are available in the late summer to fall months.
Current Facts
Tangerine Citrus Gems are a perennial flower classified botanically as Tagetes tenuifolia, though more commonly known as Marigolds. Other common names for this flower are the Big Marigold, Signet Marigold, Aztec Marigold, or Mexican Marigold. These flowers grow in long flower beds that insects like ladybugs, hummingbirds, and butterflies are drawn to. Other varieties of edible Marigolds include Pinwheels, which come in alternating shades of red and yellow, and Lemon Gem, which produces low mounds of bright yellow lacy foliage that smell of citrus, like Tangerine Gems. As a flower that originates in Mexico, Tangerine Citrus Gems are sometimes confused with African Marigolds. The difference between these two is that African Marigolds can cause digestive discomfort when consumed and are thus less recommended for eating.
Nutritional Value
Though the nutritional value of Tangerine Gem Citrus isn’t widely known, edible Marigold flowers are generally known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They may have the ability to reduce pain experienced from arthritis, sore throats, and skin inflammations. Marigolds have been used in traditional medicines to treat burns, rashes, and open wounds. These flowers are also rich in alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene, and lutein, which may help maintain healthy skin, support immune function, and potentially reduce heart disease risk. Tea made from Marigold flowers may help with gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and gastritis. This tea may also be able to reduce indigestion and cramps. Some people experience allergies when exposed to Marigolds, which can result in respiratory issues, rashes, and swelling. This may be especially true for those who already have ragweed or chrysanthemum allergies.
Applications
Tangerine Gem Cirus flowers are edible and can be tossed over dishes to add extra flavor and color. They can be used in green salads, fruit salads, soups, grain bowls, and yogurt parfaits. They may be used as a garnish for curries, stir-fries, and meat dishes, adding a light contrast to these more hearty flavors. Tangerine Gem Citrus flowers are often used in cocktails and pair well with alcohols like gin, vodka, champagne, tequila, rum, and citrus-flavored liqueurs. These flowers can be used on top of desserts like cakes, pastries, chocolate mousse, panna cotta, and lemon bars. Tangerine Gem Citrus flowers may be infused with herbs to make tea.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Flowers have been eaten for thousands of years, tracing back to the times of the Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. The Romans used violets and roses in their cooking, particularly in salads and as garnishes. The Ancient Greeks and Chinese believed edible flowers to have many medicinal values, particularly due to their high antioxidant content. Early Incas, Aztecs, and Hindus incorporated edible flowers into many cultural rituals. Marigold petals were often piled onto alters or used to give dishes a golden hue. Victorians associated flowers with elegance and refinement, using edible flowers to decorate cakes and desserts. The Victorians also used flowering plants like mondara to treat bee stings. Dried flowers have been used throughout history to make tea blends. The Chinese and Japanese would use Chrysanthemum and cherry blossom in their teas, soups, and jellied desserts.
Geography/History
Tangerine Gem Citrus flowers are native to Mexico. They grow in sunny climates and do not tolerate excess shade, which is why they bloom the most during summer. They can be found in oak forests, along roadsides, and in home gardens. They are also cultivated for commercial production. Tangerine Gem Citrus flowers spread beyond their native region and grew in popularity partially due to the trend of consuming edible foraged items in foods, desserts, and drinks. Their popularity has also grown as gardening has become a more accessible lifestyle, especially for those inhabiting small living spaces where crops like Tangerine Gem Citrus flowers can be grown. These flowers are relatively obscure and are more commonly found in gardens, farmers’ markets, and specialty stores than in larger grocery stores.
