Lemon Poppy Seed Layer Cake

Name: Lemon Poppy Seed Layer Cake
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 2 h 28 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour*; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 5 tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, soft; 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) coconut oil or shortening; 2 cups Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar; 5 large eggs, separated with no yolk traces in egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest from 5 large lemons, no white bitter pith; 1 cup buttermilk, must be at room temperature; Cream Cheese Frosting, optional; 2 tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 pint blackberries; 1 pint blueberries; Pre-made purchased candy flowers; Edible flowers, optional