Aaibe, Ajihe, Amane, Ape
Salvia hians
Family: Lamiaceae
What it is like
A herb which keeps growing from year to year. It grows to about 1 m high. It is hairy. The leaves have long stalks. Leaves are 3.5-11.5 cm long by 2-9 cm wide. They are oval to heart shaped. They have teeth along the edge. The flowers are blue. They are 3.5 cm long and in 2 or 3 distinct rings.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. In Nepal it grows between 2600-4100 m altitude. It grows in open places at the edge of the forest. It suits hardiness zones 7-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Afghanistan, Asia, Australia, China, Europe, Himalayas, India, Kashmir, Nepal, Pakistan, Tasmania, Tibet
How it is used for food
The pith of the tender stem is pickled. It has a sweet taste and is eaten especially by children. The flowers are chewed and have a sweet taste. They are also sucked for their nectar. The roasted seeds are edible.
The pith is eaten especially by children.
Edible parts
Pith stem, flowers, seeds
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed.
Its other names
Local names
'Jib rtsi