Tsai

There are about100 species of annuals, perennials, and evergreen subshrubs and shrubs in this genus, which occurs in coastal parts of the Mediterranean. A few species are grown for their attractive white-wooly leaves. Though little known outside its homelands. Sideritis syriaca makes one of the finest herb teas. It is also quite easy to cultivate in northern regions, given sharp drainage.

Perennial with white-wooly lanceolate to ovate leaves, to 6cm (2½in) long. Whorls of primrose-yellow, tubular flowers are produced in wooly spikes, about 8cm (3in) long, in summer.


Common Name:
Tsai
Other Names:
Greek Mountain Tea, Tsailopita
Botanical Name:
Sideritis syriaca
Genus:
Sideritis
Family:
Lamiaceae
Native Location:
S Greece and Crete
Cultivation:
Well-drained, gritty or stony soil in full sun. Provide a dry position or mulch with grit in winter to prevent excessive moisture and mud splashing.
Propagation:
By seed sown in spring; by semi-ripe cuttings in summer; by division in spring.
Harvest:
Leaves are collected in spring, flowering tops as the first flowers open, and dried for infusion.
Height:
50cm (20in)
Width:
50cm (20in)
Hardiness:
Z8
Parts Used:
Leaves, flowering tops.
Properties:
An aromatic digestive herb.
Culinary Uses:
Dried leaves and flowering tops are made into tea.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 368