Java Tea (Orthosiphon aristatus)

Family: Lamiaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Orthosiphon aristatus, commonly known as Java Tea or Cat's Whiskers, is a popular herbal plant grown in East Asia. It reaches a height of 200 cm upon maturity. The leaves contain flavones, saponins, a glycoside, an essential oil, and potassium. It has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is highly diuretic and used in the treatment of various kidney conditions, cystitis, urethritis, and gout.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Forest margins. Thickets, regrowths, grasslands and along forest borders and roadsides, often in shaded not too dry localities, but also in sunny places, at elevations up to 1,000 metres. (Zone 9)