Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum)

Family: Hydrophyllaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Eriodictyon californicum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.3 m (7ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

refreshing taste and to relieve thirst. — The fresh leaves are chewed for their refreshing taste and to relieve thirst.; An aromatic sweet tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves.; An extract of the leaves is used as a flavouring in baked goods, sweets, ice cream and soft drinks.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry mountain slopes at altitudes up to 1,200 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)