Thelesperma gracile - (Torr.)Gray.
(Torr.)Gray.
Hopi tea greenthread
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Brigham Young University
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
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Utah State University
Description
Thelesperma gracile is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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 Uses
Tea. Flower buds. No further details are given. A tea is made from the leaves and dried flowers. The flowers and leaf tips are dried in an oven and then boiled for a very short time. When well made it is delicious, with just a hint of mint in its aftertaste.
Distribution
Central and western N. America - Nebraska and Wyoming to Texas, Mexico and Arizona.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
Succeeds in any moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun. This species is not very hardy outdoors in Britain, usually requiring cold greenhouse treatment.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in situ, only just covering the seed. In dry weather the seed should be watered in. Division might be possible.
Other Uses
DyeA fine reddish-brown basketry and textile dye is obtained from the plant. No more details.
