Flowers for Tea

April 8, 2024

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum spp)

Chrysanthemums have been used for centuries to embellish and elevate teas. Often used in display teas, chrysanthemum has pungent floral flavors with a lingering finish. Chrysanthemum tea is high in vitamins and minerals, especially potassium. Potassium has been shown to help the kidneys, heart, and other organs function properly, and studies have shown that it reduces the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. Chrysanthemum has also been valued for its anti-inflammatory effects on arthritic conditions and has long been used to ease digestive disorders.

Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)

Cornflower is a commonly used petal in tea blends to give color and visual interest. Cornflower, also known as Bachelor’s Button, comes in a variety of colors, including the traditional blue, as well as pink, purple, white, and red. The blue blossoms were traditionally used as dye plants. The generally neutral flavor of cornflowers, with just hints of sweet and spicy clove, make it a useful flower for enhancing the appearance of a premium blend.

Day Lily (Hemerocallis spp)

Day lily flowers are often used in beauty products and are believed to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Internally, lily petals are believed to clear heat from the body, soothe a cough, and calm the spirit. Often used in display teas (teas that are hand-tied around a flower and allowed to “bloom” in the cup or in a teapot) for their beautiful appearance, the petals can also be used to decorate any floral blend and to impart a bit of a floral note to the tea.

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Elder has been used as a remedy for colds and flu for centuries. With antibacterial and antiviral activity, it clears respiratory passageways, alleviates congestion, and soothes a sore throat. It reduces fever through its diaphoretic properties, and both the flowers and the berries are edible. They are prized for their high vitamin and mineral contents and abilities to be effective against colds and influenza. Though the berries are commonly used for jam and wine, the flowers themselves have a delicate, floral aroma that works perfectly for a light tea.