Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, commonly known as Blue Porterweed, is a low-growing, sprawling wildflower and an excellent addition to butterfly gardens. But it isn’t just for
pollinators! Much of the plant is edible to humans.

Flowers may be eaten raw and have a mushroom-like flavor. Flower spikes can be used as you would a bay leaf to season soups or stews.

Leaves can be dried and steeped into a foamy tea or brewed into beer. This foaming
property is likely the origin of the common name, porterweed, referring to the porter style of beer the tea resembles.

Check out the Florida Wildflower Foundation for more information.

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