It’s important to ensure a healthy diet of weeds and some grasses, but flowers can be a healthy treat or snack for your Russian tortoise. Unless you have a greenhouse or another method to grow fresh flowers year round, dried flowers can be a good option.
Cornflower Petals
Cornflowers contain essential nutrients like vitamin B7 and calcium. Cornflowers can be an appetite stimulant. The smell, bright color and natural properties can be an appetite stimulant. Feed tortoises cornflowers in moderation.
Rose Petals
Rose petals can be a nice treat. They are low in protein. Sprinkle a little on his food and the sweet smell will entice him to his bowl. The bright color will get him to eat. Feed tortoises rose petals in moderation.
Calendula Flowers
Calendula is a herb in the marigold family. It’s commonly known as Pot Marigold. Calendula is rich in antioxidants and low in protein. It’s great as a treat or sprinkled on a greens.
Rose Hips
Rose hips are the round portion of the rose flower just below the petals. They contain a lot of vitamin C. Soak in water overnight and add to greens. Only offer a few times a week.
Red Cover Blossoms
Feed Red Clover in moderation. You can offer the leaves and the flower blossoms, but keep in mind that clover has a high level of protein so keep it a small percentage of the Russian tortoise’s diet.
Mallow Flowers
Blue mallow (Malva sylvestris) is also known as High Mallow, Common Mallow, Ebegumeci, Althaea rosaea, Mallards, Mauls and French hollyhock. This is a tasty treat for Russian tortoises.
Hibiscus
Rose of Sharon and Hibiscus flowers are a popular treat for tortoises. Russian tortoises seem to be attracted to the bright colors. They’re low in protein and make a healthy treat, as well as appetite stimulant.
