Many people find joy in decorating their homes with beautiful cut flowers, however, for allergy sufferers, the beauty of these floral arrangements can come at a price - sneezing, watery eyes, and general discomfort. And usually, Spring, Summer and Autumn are the worst times of year for allergy sufferers. But fear not, because we’ve put together a list of the best and worst cut flowers for those that are sensitive to pollen, helping you to make informed choices when selecting flowers for your home, loved ones, or for those special events.
Best for Allergy Sufferers
Roses: Rose pollen is typically too heavy to be carried by the wind, making these flowers less likely to trigger allergic reactions. Opt for varieties with high petal counts - they tend to produce less pollen.
Orchids: not only stunning, but also hypoallergenic! With minimal pollen production, these exotic blooms are less likely to cause discomfort for those with allergies.
Tulips: Known for their vibrant colours and iconic shape, tulips have a low pollen count and are less likely to aggravate allergies. To reduce the risk even further, remove the anthers (pollen-producing parts) from the centre of the flower.
Hydrangeas: These elegant, globe-like flowers have a very low pollen count, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Snapdragons: Snapdragons are not only visually appealing with their unique shape, but they also produce minimal pollen!
Worst for Allergy Sufferers
Lilies: Lilies are notorious for their potent pollen. The powdery substance can easily become airborne and cause allergic reactions. If you're set on having lilies, remove the stamens to reduce pollen exposure.
Daisies: Daisies may seem innocent, but their open structure allows pollen to be easily released into the air.
Chrysanthemums: Mums have a high pollen content and can therefore be problematic for allergy sufferers.
Sunflowers: Sunflowers may bring sunshine to any room, but their large, vibrant flowers produce a considerable amount of pollen. For those with allergies, sunflowers might not be the best choice for a centerpiece.
Baby's Breath: Often used as a filler in floral arrangements, baby's breath can release pollen particles into the air, contributing to allergy symptoms. Hypoallergenic fillers like ferns or eucalyptus are a good alternative.
Enjoying cut flowers doesn't have to come at the expense of your well-being. By choosing the right blooms, you can experience beautiful allergy-friendly arrangements without causing allergic reactions. Order your cut flower arrangements here for pickup or delivery within the GTA. If you have an allergy to a specific flower and would like to make sure it’s not included in your design, be sure to let us know in the special instructions box when you place your order.