I made a wedding cake yesterday using real flwers namely oriental lilies and roses. Did you know? The florist told me that your need to cut the 6 brown stamens out of the flower before putting them on the cake! They can stain the frosting and can be toxic. I had no idea 
Many real flowers have toxic properties. Perhaps silk flowers really would be a better choice. I know lots of brides love fresh flowers, but caution is required. Not all florist will offer the information and there's no promise that the florist is always knowlegeable, either. You have to be the one in the know.
In my readings I have read that some feel that you must have a barrier in place on a cake before ever placing any flower on a cake. You never know what pesticides, toxins, extera are on the flowers or petals. Also think did the florest wash their hands before placing the flowers on the cake.
I know, gross to think and nobody eats the flowers, but they could transfer bad things....Just a thought.
Stephanie
Hi!
I'm not aware of the toxicity of the oriental lily BUT i do know that you have to cut off the stamens. This is because the brownish/orange powder that comes off the stamen stains badly. I mean, it even stains your fingers, let alone clothes! That's why if you see pictures of cakes with oriental lilies with the stamens, they are probably gumpaste flowers. I buy them every now and then for the home and once the flower opens, I cut the stamens off before the powder starts falling off and staining whatever is below it, including the petals of the flower.
Hi,
I grow these beautiful lilies and they are so gorgeous and smell wonderful! I love using them on my cakes, but whether on a cake or in a vase, I always pull the stamens out first because they make a huge mess! A good tip I got from someone who works for a florist was that I could pull the stamens out before the flowers even open! I always cut them before they open because they open so beautifully in a vase and last longer. If you gently force the petals open, you can pull the stamens out before they get powdery and make a mess. It's really easy and much less of a mess and no worries about toxicity. Enjoy them!
wow, antcat, you grow these lilies! i'm impressed. how wonderful to have a free supply of this lily! it's quite expensive, where i'm from.
Yes, I am very blessed! They are my favorite flowers. They smell wonderful and are quite beautiful. I grow pink ones, white ones and the ones called Stargazers which are dark pink with white trim (my favorite!). Here's a picture of some pink ones from my garden. One of the many blessings that come with the California climate. 
My DH grows them to the purple is my favorite.
They are so beautiful. I have no luck with flowers, the only living thing in my home, besides my husband and son, hahaha,is a plant my mom gave me that has been in our family forever. I think she thinks its hardy enough so its safe with me.hahaha Once again beautiful flowers, I am jealous.
So sorry for adding the picture twice.This was my first time adding a picture in the forums.
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