Consumption of edible flowers in South Africa: nutritional benefits, stakeholders' views, policy and practice implications

Purpose Edible flowers have traditionally been consumed for their nutritional and medicinal properties. Aponogeton distachyos is an aquatic flowering plant native to the Western Cape of South Africa (SA) that used be a wild gathered during winter months, but it now considered underutilised endangered. This study aims at gaining insights from different stakeholders into activities across value chain impact on consumption . Design/methodology/approach The methodology involved identification in conducting qualitative in-depth interviews data collection. Twelve participants were selected via purposive sampling interviewed using semi-structured (face-to-face, telephone online). Findings Nostalgic connection flower with local culture heritage its unique taste flavour are key drivers. Promotional educational efforts by food advocates public events help raise consumer awareness, which generally lacking. Limited geographic seasonal availability, perishability, price quality issues emerged, together low as main barriers more frequent geographically spread consumption. Originality/value Although edible centuries, there has little attention journey final consumers. present identifies important challenges emanating stages one particular neglected plant, certain implications people's dietary quality, environmental sustainability biodiversity natural resources beyond SA. Highlights (1) (SA). (2)The offers benefits related resources. (3)Flower's nostalgic emerge driver. (4)Its highly appeal (5)Low limited barriers. (6)There largely unexploited policy potential supporting diversity through growing flowers.