Violets Viola (Violaceae) Violets have been recorded in recipes since the 16th century, their smell is very evocative of sweets or perfume for many. Edible violets are a delight visually and soothing for the body. For me, carpets of purple, blue-violet coloured flowers with heart-shaped leaves, these low growing plants have a strong presence. Easier to spot […]

Weeds! I love them, it's my business. But why are weeds important? Here I share five great reasons to celebrate weeds and debunk some myths about these humble plants. Perhaps it will help you to see these plants in a new light and value their contribution to your garden. What is a weed? I can't […]

Buttery, melt-in-the-mouth biscuits, sandwiched together with a vibrant, sweet violet infused butter-cream. These are a dreamy experience, leaving you feeling like you’re eating sweet violets. Here I share one of my favourite, homemade violet recipes. You can also read more about violets in my Wild Food: Violets post and A Dozen Violet Recipes. Buttery, melt-in-the-mouth […]

Crystallised flowers and petals are an attractive way to preserve flowers out of season, or prolong their use in season. Flowers candied in this way can last well for several months. This traditional method is a little fiddly and detailed, which suits some people. I find the effect is worth it, but a session once […]

I've had such fun experimenting with edible violets! Their colour and aroma are a delight, if not a little elusive to pin down! So I thought I'd share my best Dozen Recipes for using Violets for sweet and savoury, complete with notes on colour and flavour. Most of the recipes I share here use sweet […]

People often assume I live in the countryside with a beautiful garden, which isn't entirely true. Yes, I do live in Cornwall, 3 minutes walk from the sea, though I also live in Penzance town and have a small Cornish backyard rather than a garden. Myth broken! I love my town house and from the […]