Mexican Chia (Salvia hispanica)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Salvia hispanica is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavoured with fruit juices and consumed as a cooling drink. — When soaked in water, the seeds form a gelatinous mass which is flavoured with fruit juices and consumed as a cooling drink.; The gelled seeds can also be prepared as a gruel or pudding.; The sprouted seeds are eaten in salads, sandwiches, soups, stews etc.; Due to their mucilaginous property they are often sprouted on clay or other porous materials.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 8)