Passionflower
Passionflower is a native Tennessee vine with one of the most dramatic blooms in the woods, and the dried herb has been steeped as a calming tea in Appalachian homes for generations.
What It Is
Passiflora incarnata grows wild across the Southeast, climbing fences and forest edges with fringed purple blooms that look almost too exotic to be local. The dried herb comes from the leaves and stems of that same vine. It has a long history in Appalachian folk tradition, where it was commonly brewed into a tea in the evening.
The flavor is mild and grassy, with a faint earthiness that blends easily with other herbs. Because this is wildcrafted, the herb was gathered from wild plants rather than farmed, which is fitting for something that has always been part of the regional landscape.
What To Do
To make a simple tea, steep one to two teaspoons of dried passionflower in a cup of hot water for about ten minutes, then strain. The flavor is gentle on its own and plays well with mint, chamomile, or a little honey. It can also be combined with other dried herbs to make a custom blend.
Store dried passionflower in a cool, dark place in a sealed container. It keeps its character best within a year of harvest. If you are new to herbal teas, this is an easy one to start with, light, approachable, and grown practically in your own backyard.
