Best 10 Allergy-Friendly Blooms That Won't Trigger the Sneezing and Itching
The natural beauty and symbolic significance of fresh flowers have made them one of the best gifts for the special people in our lives. However, when eye-watering and ceaseless sneezing overshadow their appreciative value, the gesture falls short of its intended message. But did you know that not all flowers induce allergies? This article explores what makes flowers allergenic, and highlights 10 kinds that will be gentle on your sensitivities. We also list five of the worst ones!
What Causes Allergies in Flowers
Most people who are allergic to flowers are allergic to the pollen they produce. This is known as a pollen allergy, which occurs when pollen is inhaled and gets into your eyes, nose or lungs. Pollen is a powdery substance that is created by seed plants as part of their reproduction process. The grains appear like a fine dust that is white or yellow in colour, and can be found in the anther of the flower. Only flowers with male structures produce pollen, while female parts receive pollen via pollination. Allergic reactions happen when your body mistakenly recognises pollen as a harmful substance.
Almost all flowering plants produce pollen, but not all. Moreover, flowers that produce heavy and sticky, or smaller amounts of pollen are less likely to trigger allergies, because they are prevented from becoming easily airborne. This reduces your chances of inhaling the pollen.
Individuals with pollen allergies are also advised to avoid flowers with strong fragrances, as they may worsen irritation.
Top Hypoallergenic Flowers
Get to know 10 of the safest flowers for people with allergies. You’ll be pleased to find some classic favourites on the list, along with a few surprising options that you can include in your next gift!
1. Roses
Roses contain pollen but their particles are large enough that they aren’t easily dispersed into the air. The layered petals of each flower head help trap the pollen inside. Roses are available in numerous colours year-round. However, it’s worth noting their strong scent.
2. Tulips
Tulips are another popular choice for both allergy sufferers and those without. Similar to roses, tulips produce heavy pollen in low quantities.
3. Camellias
To the untrained eye, camellias and roses may appear identical, but you can tell them apart by their arch-shaped petals that taper to a point and their alternating petal arrangement. These flowers are suitable for individuals with allergies thanks to their low pollen count. Additionally, they contain both male and female parts, which means pollen doesn’t need to be carried far for pollination to take place.
4. Geraniums
Geraniums are a very accommodating plant — so much so that they’re sometimes considered weeds — and they also happen to be gentle on allergies. They produce very little pollen, and they are popular enough that people have created pollen-free varieties.
5. Peonies
The lush and dramatic look of peonies is due to their abundant petals, which effectively keep the pollen contained within the blooms.
6. Hydrangeas
The symbolic meaning of hydrangeas, representing heartfelt emotions and tenderness, makes them a favourite for significant events like proposals and weddings. Fortunately, their lavish appearance comes without drawbacks, as their sticky pollen is specifically adapted for insect pollination.
7. Carnations
We can’t help but wonder what we would present for Mother’s Day without carnations. These reliable flowers don’t set off allergies due to their insect-pollinated nature, coupled with their dense petals, protecting your eyes and nose from any potential irritation.
8. Orchids
Orchids are often regarded as one of the best floral gifts for several reasons. Their exotic look, along with low pollen production and a delicate scent, makes them allergy-friendly for most people. Plus, they are remarkably low maintenance and add beauty as indoor plants.
9. Hibiscus
Hibiscus are a type of perennial shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall. They are often used in bouquets for a vibrant pop of colour. Hibiscus produce weighty pollen that cannot easily travel through the air.
10. Daffodils
These springtime flowers are insect-pollinated and thus are not considered a threat to individuals with allergies. Nevertheless, avoid sniffing them up close as small amounts of pollen can still trigger sensitivities in some people.
Top Allergenic Flowers
While you’re shopping for potential blooms that you or your recipient can admire without experiencing a full-force sneeze attack, steer clear of these allergenic flowers that are sure to provoke allergic reactions!
1. Gerberas
Gerberas are colourful daisies that exist in vivid shades of red, pink, orange, purple, and more, making them bright additions to bouquets and other arrangements. They are the fifth most-used cut flower in the world, but contain high levels of pollen.
2. Baby’s Breaths
Baby’s breaths are adored for their delicate appearance, but they can truly pack a punch with their high pollen output and lightweight, small pollen grains. These plants are quite popular and are responsible for significant allergy symptoms.
3. Chrysanthemums
You may know chrysanthemums for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, but they are actually among the most notorious allergy triggers. Shortened as mums, these flowers also belong to the daisy family and are incredibly high pollen producers. Their pollen grains are tiny, light and dusty, and they can also cause contact dermatitis.
4. Lilies
Lilies kind of sit on the fence between being allergenic and hypoallergenic, depending on one key factor: whether you choose to leave their stamens and anthers intact. Lilies are significant producers of pollen and may be strong in fragrance.
5. Sunflowers
Sunflowers can prompt allergies due to the sheer size of their central disk, which houses a lot of pollen. However, many florists now cultivate varieties of sunflowers that are easier on allergy sufferers.
Final Thoughts
The last thing you want to do when sending what is meant to be a heartfelt gift is to trigger someone’s incapacitating allergies. By choosing allergy-friendly blooms, you can enjoy the beauty and symbolism of fresh flowers without the discomfort of sneezing, itching, and sometimes even headaches. Whether you’re decorating a home, celebrating a special occasion, or gifting a loved one, selecting low-allergen varieties ensures that everyone can appreciate their charm without allergy complaints!
Create a custom bouquet with Dawn Q without the fear of allergic reactions. At our floral boutique, our expert florists pore over every detail, ensuring that each bouquet is as stunning as it is safe. Explore other floral arrangements with us and let us help you procure the perfect blooms for any occasion.
Reach out to us today!
