Flowering teas are appreciated more for their appearance than their flavour. They are typically made of tea leaves and tea buds. that have been sewn by hand into different shapes.
Many flowering teas contain a single flower or multiple flowers inside the tea leaves. However, not all flowering teas contain actual flowers—the name "flowering tea" can also refer to the opening of the tea leaves during infusion. Common flowers in flowering teas include carnation, chrysanthemum, hibiscus, jasmine, marigold, lily, osmanthus, and rose.
Most flowering teas have a flavour that can be described as slightly floral or vegetal. Generally speaking, the flowers contained inside do not contribute much to the flavour, although flowers like chrysanthemum, jasmine, and rose can be tasted in some cases.
The leaves are processed into tea (usually green tea, but sometimes white tea or black tea then shaped by hand. Using food-safe string, bundles of about 20 leaves are sewn into shape, often around one or more flowers.
The whole idea behind flowering teas is enjoying their appearance, so a clear glass tea pot is the best choice. If you don't have a clear glass teapot, just use a large wine glass or a glass pitcher to infuse your flowering tea.
Although most green teas and white teas taste best when they are steeped in water at 70-80'C flowering teas have a less pronounced flavour and are fine when steeped in near boiling water. In can sometimes be better for helping the flowering teas to "bloom." Also while most green teas are sensitive to over-brewing, many flowering teas can steep for a longer time. This makes them a great choice for serving with guests.
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