Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is often triggered by airborne pollen, especially from wind-pollinated plants. Fortunately, many cut flowers are insect-pollinated, meaning their pollen is heavier and less likely to become airborne. These are safer choices for customers with allergies.

Best Flowers for Allergy Sufferers

These flowers are typically low in pollen, insect-pollinated, or have pollen that is not easily airborne:

1. Roses

• Why: Large, sticky pollen grains; little to no airborne pollen.
• Tip: Choose tight-budded varieties (less scent = fewer irritants).

2. Orchids

• Why: Minimal pollen and not wind-pollinated.
• Bonus: Elegant and long-lasting.

3. Peonies

• Why: Moderate pollen levels, but not typically airborne.
• Note: Fragrant, but rarely trigger allergic reactions.

4. Tulips

• Why: Low pollen, and it stays inside the flower.
• Tip: Unscented varieties are safest.

5. Daffodils (Narcissus)

• Why: Low pollen and very rarely cause allergic symptoms.

6. Hydrangeas

• Why: Especially mophead types produce very little pollen.
• Great for: Bouquets and centerpieces.

7. Irises

• Why: Insect-pollinated with contained pollen.
• Elegant: Great shape and color variety.

8. Lisianthus (Eustoma)

• Why: Low pollen and delicate beauty.
• Good substitute: For roses or ranunculus.

9. Snapdragons

• Why: Pollen stays trapped inside the bloom structure.
• Fun fact: Bees must force entry to access pollen!

10. Zinnias

• Why: Low airborne pollen.
• Bright and cheerful: Perfect summer bloom.

Flowers to Avoid for Hay Fever Sufferers

These are high in airborne pollen and often trigger reactions:

• Lilies – Strong scent and exposed pollen.
• Sunflowers – High-pollen varieties.
• Chrysanthemums – Known allergens.
• Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila) – Tiny flowers, high potential for irritation.
• Daisies & Asters – Airborne pollen, especially wild or large-petal types.

Allergy-Safe Tips for Florists

1. Remove Stamens: If safe to do so (e.g., lilies), gently remove pollen-laden parts.
2. Opt for Hybrids: Many commercial hybrids are bred for beauty, not pollination, and have reduced pollen.
3. Go Green: Use foliage (eucalyptus, ferns) to fill arrangements—most are safe, but avoid strongly scented types.
4. Avoid Scented Blooms: Fragrance can irritate sensitive noses even if pollen is low.
5. Offer Dried or Silk Options: Great alternative for very sensitive individuals.

Suggested Allergy-Friendly Bouquet Recipe

“Breath of Spring”

• 3 White Roses
• 3 Lavender Tulips
• 2 Pink Lisianthus
• 1 Stem White Hydrangea
• Filler: Ferns and Seeded Eucalyptus (light use)