Herbal Tea Plants That Grow in California

Chamomile

• Chamomile is renowned for its calming properties. There are two types of chamomile: chamaemelum nobile is a perennial and matricaria recutita is an annual. Both types flourish in well-draining soil. Chamomile usually blooms from June until August with white and yellow daisy-like flowers. The plant is native to North Africa and Europe -- but is grown throughout the United States for medicinal and culinary use. In addition to herbal tea, dried chamomile leaves can be added to mineral water for a cool beverage and fresh flowers can be added to salads. Plant chamomile in neutral soil -- you may need to add lime to your soil to neutralize it since many areas of California have acidic soil. According to Orange County Herb Society, the best time to plant chamomile is right before the weather cools in the fall, since chamomile thrives in cooler weather.

Lavender

• Add lavender to your herbal tea blend. Lavender is aromatic -- both in your teacup and your garden. This perennial plant adds delicate fragrance and vibrant bluish-purple color to the landscape. Flowers bloom during the summer. Plant lavender in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.7 and 7.3. Since much of California's soil tends to be acidic, you may need to test your soil's pH and add materials as necessary to amend the alkalinity. Bonnie Plants recommends adding some builder's sand to your planting soil to increase the soil's drainage and ensure that your plant will thrive. According to Orange County Herb Society, lavender can be planted at any time of year. However, the best time to thoroughly prune lavender is in the fall with light pruning and mulching in the spring.

Mint

• Mint is renowned for its fresh flavor, vibrant green leaves and multitude of uses. Spearmint is predominately used for herbal teas and in drinks such as mojitos. Peppermint can also be used in tea and has a stronger fragrance than spearmint. Both varieties bloom with delicate flowers during the summer. Plant mint in well-drained, moist soil. Wait until the plant is growing to harvest any leaves. Grow mint in containers to prevent it from overtaking the rest of your garden and landscape. Mint can be an invasive plant and grows vigorously in full sunlight. Use dried mint in your herbal tea blend or use fresh leaves in salads, sauces and cocktails.