Mexican Chia, Chia
Salvia hispanica
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Salvia hispanica is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Not known
Southern N. America - C. Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 3
When soaked in water, the seeds form a gelatinous mass which is flavoured with fruit juices and consumed as a cooling drink. The gelled seeds can also be prepared as a gruel or pudding. The sprouted seeds are eaten in salads, sandwiches, soups, stews etc. Due to their mucilaginous property they are often sprouted on clay or other porous materials. The seed can be ground into a meal and made into bread, biscuits, cakes etc, usually in a mix with cereal flours. The seed is a good source of protein and easily digested fats.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Drink: not including plant saps, tea or coffee substitutes.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a light to medium well-drained fertile soil in a warm sunny position. Plants are not very frost tolerant but can be grown as summer annuals in Britain. This species is widely cultivated for its edible seed in Mexico. Many of the plants cultivated under this name are in fact S. lavandulifolia. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.
Propagating it: Seed - sow March/April in a greenhouse. Germination usually takes place within 2 weeks. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant out in late spring or early summer. The seed can also be sown in situ during April/May, though this sowing might not mature its seed in a cool summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist