Today is a good day!
The Rose of Sharon is at the top of my list of favorite plants. The main reason for that is that it is usually in bloom around my birthday. So, much to my surprise (and delight) when I looked out the window today and seen it had a few blooms opened up it definitely added a moment of delight to my day.
Since it is in bloom I thought it would be perfect timing to share some information about it.
The Rose of Sharon is good at attracting Humming Birds, Honey Bees and Bumble Bees.
Every part of The Rose of Sharon is edible (leaves, blossoms and bark). It contains vitamin C and, anthocyanins which are antioxidants
Flowers can be used raw or cooked. The flowers have a mild flavor and mucilaginous texture. You can use the flowers in a salad, both for looking at and for eating.
The root bark is used by the Chinese as an anti fungal remedy. It is also said to calm the nerves.
The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a very mild flavor, but get tough as they age, they are said to be good when mixed with a softer leaved lettuce. You can also make tea from the leaves.
To make tea use 1 teaspoon flowers or leaf (for a stronger tea use 2 teaspoons) per cup of tea (about 8 ounces). Add the boiling water to your cup, steep for 5-10 minutes. If you would like additional flavor add a large slice of orange or lemon or three slices of fresh juicy peaches. Sweeten with honey to suit your taste.
With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.
The Rose of Sharon is part of the hibiscus family, so if you have tried hibiscus tea and liked it, I bet you will enjoy Rose of Sharon tea.
Two of the littles went with me to pick some flowers for drying. Once I brought them in, I took the petals off the plant and laid them out to dry. I don’t have a dehydrator so they are laying on a cookie sheet in our basement. This method of drying will take a few days. Every other day I will flip the leaves around to ensure they are getting dried. Once I feel like they are dried and no moisture is left in the leaves, I will store them in a glass jar until I am ready to use them.
That’s all I have for today! If you try Rose of Sharon tea, let me know what you think!
Until Next Time,
Julie