Tea of heaven (Hydrangea serrata thunbergii)

Family: Hydrangeaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Hydrangea serrata thunbergii is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet and are used to make a sweet tea called 'tea of heaven', it is used in Buddhist ceremonies]. — The young leaves, after fermentation, become very sweet and are used to make a sweet tea called 'tea of heaven', it is used in Buddhist ceremonies].; The leaves contain phellodulcin (its chemical formula is C16 H14 O), a very sweet substance that can be used as a sugar substitute.; The older leaves can be dried, powdered and used as a flavouring on foods.; The young leaves and shoots are also eaten cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Montane woodlands and by mountain streams all over Japan. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)