Imagine you are going on a first date and decide to bring along a bouquet of lilies. When your date arrives, they begin sneezing uncontrollably and tell you that they have hay fever. Not a great start! Hay fever is exceedingly common, and in the summer months, many people who have hay fever find even being near gardens difficult due to the high levels of pollen. Does this mean that someone who has hay fever can never have a romantic floral bouquet made for them?
Of course not! But when choosing what to put in the bouquet, you will need to ensure that the floral elements are low in pollen. So, here are some beautiful gift options that will set the right mood without causing a sneezing fit!
Roses
This is one of the most beautiful flowers and one that is also low in pollen. Associated with Valentine’s Day, these deeply romantic florals are a great way to express how you feel about someone. However, take care when choosing the variety. Due to the high level of breeding that has occurred in this botanical family, some still do release high levels of pollen and may still impact those who have hay fever. So, be sure to ask your florist about low-pollen options.
Peonies
Popular from April to June, peonies are fun and striking blossoms that are associated with bridal bouquets and love.
These are universally considered to be one of the lower-pollen florals due to the fact that the pollen that they do emit is thick and sticky. Thus, it does not float through the air, minimising how it will impact those with hay fever.
In the UK, you will most likely be able to find this blossom in pink and white hues, both of which are associated with love and romance.
Asiatic Lilies
Now, before you think that all lilies are high in pollen, this type of lily is completely safe for those who have hay fever. Much like the peony, they do create pollen, but it is simply too sticky to become airborne, and it is carried from plant to plant by bees and other pollinators.
Asiatic lilies come in so many colours that you will almost certainly be able to find one that matches the mood that you are trying to create. A particularly striking lily in this group is the magenta lily, which is going to impress whoever you give it to in a bouquet.
Gladiolus
Many people have seen this blossom but aren’t sure of its name. Visually, it looks like a lily that has been spread on a sword, making it a great addition to most bouquets.
It is on the low-pollen end of the pollen spectrum, making it ideal for those who have hay fever or pollen allergies.
Snapdragons
Most people have seen a snapdragon at one time or another. Because of its history, this floral choice may be best for someone who has a pollen allergy but also has a mystical background. Why? Because snapdragons have long been linked to warding off evil spirits, curses, and spells. If your partner or date didn’t know this, it can be a great conversation starter.
If you have any ideas on gifts for hay fever sufferers I’d love you to share them.
*Collaborative post
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
Leave a Reply