Hibiscus flowers are the deep crimson-pink calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa, a tropical bloom with a tart, fruity taste that lands somewhere between cranberry and pomegranate. Brewed hot or steeped over ice, the flowers produce a bright ruby color and deliver a refreshing cup of tea.

Hibiscus has been enjoyed for generations as a caffeine-free tea, especially in warm-weather kitchens where its tang plays well with citrus and a touch of honey. Pair with a slice of orange or a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist, or blend with Rose Hips for a deeper berry note.

Hand-packed at Home Folk's Bulk Herb Store and naturally grown. A favorite for porch-pitcher iced tea on a hot afternoon, the kind of cup that goes nicely with a quiet English Paper Piecing project on the porch.