| Country of Origin | Sudan; Egypt; or China | | Region | Banks of the Nile River; Fujian Province | | Shipping Port | Khartoum, Alexandria, Fuchou | | Altitude | below 2000 feet | | Cup Characteristics | Very tangy - almost tending sour. Refreshing and with lingering palate cleansing notes. | | Infusion | Scarlet red to deep burgundy - depending upon amount used. | In history every herb and flower has a symbolic meaning. Hibiscus means grace and beauty. Hibiscus (hibiscus abelmoschus and hibiscus sabdariffa) a native to Africa, is related to a bushy ornamental shrub that decorates many tropical gardens, has become a popular showy house plant in Europe and North America and is a flowery accessory to many young women in the tropics. The calyces (often referred to as the hibiscus flower itself) which form the outer covering of the flower buds are dried and used to make a rosy citrus flavored tea. There are more than 200 species of hibiscus. The types used for tea are Abelmoschus and Sabdariffa. Hibiscus is rich in Vitamin A and C and beta-carotene making it a good antioxidant. Many purport that its health benefits are: - Replaces electrolytes and quenches thirst during and after athletic endeavors. - Eases symptoms of colds, flu and coughs |
