Chemchai
Lippia carviodora

Family: Verbenaceae

What it is like

A small shrub. It has many branches. It grows up to 1.3 m high. The stems are dark grey and have ribs along them. The small branches are grey and peeling. The leaves are broadly oval and 4 cm long. They have an aroma. They are rough underneath. There are round teeth along the edges. The flowers are white or cream and in spikes. They have large papery bracts around them.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. In Kenya it grows in grassland and rocky ground between 500-1,150 m altitude.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, East Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia

How it is used for food

The leaves are dried and crushed and boiled to make tea.

The leaves are sold in local markets. It is a popular flavouring plant.

Edible parts

Leaves - tea

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Lantana microphylla Franch. [Illegitimate]; Lippia carviodora var. minor Meikle;