What Part of the Hibiscus Plant Is Used for Tea?

What Part of the Hibiscus Plant Is Used for Tea?

For the familiar red hibiscus infusion, the ingredient is commonly the dried calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa: the fleshy structures around the flower. 'Hibiscus flower tea' is a familiar description, but the full ingredient identity is more useful than a decorative flower photograph.

A flower photograph is not identification

The genus Hibiscus includes many plants. An ornamental flower in a garden is not automatically the ingredient in a packaged tea. Use a food product with clear ingredient information rather than treating a photograph or common name as a collecting guide.

Check the whole ingredient list

A packet highlighting hibiscus can still be a blend with other ingredients. Those additions may affect flavour and the appearance of the cup. When comparing products, distinguish a plain hibiscus infusion from a recipe or mixture that includes it.

Explore the actual product

K&M lists Hibiscus Tea Bags in its range. Read that page and its preparation directions when choosing a packet. For a useful tasting note, record the product name and any additions instead of writing only 'red tea', which could describe several different drinks.

Further reading: Kew: Hibiscus sabdariffa plant-name and ingredient records.

Explore K&M Herbs teas and gifts, or read our free Herbal Tea Wellness Guide.