Cat’s Whiskers | Mao Xu Cao

Java tea(Cat’s Whiskers Flower) is easily identified by its white or purple lilac colored flowers that resemble cat whiskers. It is a perennial plant in the Lamiaceae family (Mint, Oregano, Hyssop, Lavender, Thyme).

Java Tea grows widely in tropical areas. It is native to Asia and Australia. Cat Whisker flowers are small in size, approximately 2 centimeters in length. The flowers range from white to light purple and have a tubular shape with elongated, thin stamens that can reach almost three times the length of the flowers. These stamens are slightly curved, extending outward, and are delicate and wispy. The flowers grow symmetrically along thin, maroon-colored stems that also have serrated and ovate-shaped leaves with prominent veining. Cat Whisker flowers have a crisp and delicate texture and a sweet and grassy flavor with bitter undertones.

Cat Whisker flowers can be used as a beautiful edible garnish. The wispy flowers can be kept on the stem and used to decorate cakes, platters, and edible table displays, or the flowers can be separated and sprinkled over salads and desserts. Cat Whisker plants are known for their edible leaves that can be used fresh or dried. Though edible raw, the dark green leaves are generally not consumed by themselves as they have a strong, grassy flavor and fibrous texture. The leaves are steeped in boiling water to make a mildly sweet, flavored tea and are sometimes paired with garlic and turmeric as a medicinal drink. Cat Whisker leaves can also be dried and found in powder form, capsules, and extracts. When dried, the leaves will keep for 1 to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry, and dark place.