[tillacum]

OH THANK YOU MISSMAGNOLIA!!!! Now where can I find a lilac so I can mix it with mayo? I don’t know if they thrive in Texas, central Texas.

[afraidfortherepublic]

I don’t know if they thrive in Texas, central Texas.

I don't think so. hen I lived in the Houston, TX area, we used crepe myrtles as a substitute for lilacs. It didn't get cold enough for lilacs to thrive and bloom.

[MissMagnolia]

Google 'growing lilacs in TX' .... it has quite a few results (mostly forums) & you might find something interesting that will help with growing lilacs. In the meanwhile, on this link, TX was mentioned & other difficult situations for lilacs:

Lilac for the South

'HollySprings' made this comment: Grow buddilea instead. It's often called "summer lilacs" and it will bloom all summer into fall and be evergreen for most of the South for winter. It also smells heavenly and makes great bouquets from June through October, which a once blooming lilac most certainly won't. Most lilacs require too many chill hours for even zone 7ers, and the hotter the summers, the more chill hours needed.

She didn't mention if it was edible or not - that requires some more research .... no quick answer seen. :-)

[ApplegateRanch]

Our Victorian ancestors used many flowers in the kitchen, and not just for table decorations.

Lavender Flower Buds, Food Grade http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices/dried-lavender-flower-buds-food-grade#content

There’s also recipes at the link:

Recipes with this Spice
Honey Lavender Ice Cream
Lavender Racks of Lamb
Lavender Rose Potpourri
Lavender Vinaigrette
Victorian Lavender Cookies with Rose Water Icing

Or, Lavender Vanilla Sugar http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices/lavender-vanilla-sugar#content

Recipes with this Spice
Lavender Pound Cake
Lavender Sugar shortbread cookies

Violets were another favorite; crystallized, among other recipes.
http://livingmydreamlifeonthefarm.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/wild-violets-recipes/

Victorian Spring Posy Cake for Easter or Mother’s Day
using Crystallised Violets http://www.lavenderandlovage.com/2012/03/victorian-spring-posy-cake-for-easter-or-mothers-day-using-crystallised-violets.html

Nasturtiums in salads was another favorite of the times. Oh, and of course! Captain Picard’s favorite: “Replicator! Tea, hot; Earl Grey!” That has lavender in it.

(Disclaimer: I’ve only had the candied violets, and used nasturtiums, but the other recipes look good. I have purchased from Spice House, and was satisfied but haven’t tried their lavender products.)