Fresh flowers to avoid if you have allergies
For those who suffer from allergies, there are a number of fresh flowers that can cause serious negative reactions. Allergen-heavy plants can cause various problems ranging from sneezing and itchy eyes to upper respiratory tract issues. Here are some blooms that you should avoid sending if you know that the recipient suffers from allergies.
Asters
Asters, and the entire daisy family, are known for causing allergic reaction. Whether these fresh flowers are in your garden or home, their pollen spores can easily find their way into your nose, eyes and mouth.
Baby’s Breath
These fresh flowers are often used as filler flowers in arrangements for all occasions. While they are small, they can have a big effect on your allergies. These blooms have plenty of pollen but, if you opt for the double-flowered variety, you will notice that they have less pollen than the single-flowered variety.
Dahlias
These fresh flowers are known for their great size and amazing texture. They are available in a wide variety of bold colours which is why they attract bees so effectively. They are also rich in pollen which means that they are not ideal for those with allergies. The good news is that there are hybrids available that have almost no pollen. These are known as ‘formal doubles’.
Gerbera daisies
Just like asters and daisies, Gerbera daisies are known for causing plenty of sneezing and itchy eyes. Before you include them in your bouquet, make sure that the recipient does not suffer from pollen allergies.
Chrysanthemums
When you look at asters, daisies and chrysanthemums, they look quite similar to one another. This is why it makes sense when you learn that mums can also cause allergic reactions. While they are popular as potted plants and as cut flowers, you should avoid displaying them in your home.
Sunflowers
Large, bold and bright, sunflowers are the ultimate fresh flowers to send for happy occasions like birthdays. However, the recipient will not be all too happy about these blooms if they cause almost uncontrollable sneezing! Ask your florist about hypoallergenic sunflower varieties and find out if they stock any of these varieties.
Instead of sending fresh flowers such as those mentioned above, you could opt for roses or even some types of lilies. You can even have your florist remove the stamen from the lilies in the bouquet that you order so that these blooms don’t provoke any allergic reactions.