Organic Khartoum Hibiscus Tea

• Country of Origin: Sudan
• Region: Nile River, Khartoum
• Shipping Port: Alexandria
• Grade: First Grade
• Altitude: Up to 500 feet
• Manufacturer Type: Traditional, Sundried
• Cup Characteristics: A lovely deep red infusion similar to pomegranate but with a ‘pucker power’ taste similar to lemonade. Hibiscus is tangy and full of natural Vitamin C.
• Infusions: Bright burgundy red
• Ingredients: Luxury organic hibiscus

It may surprise you to learn that the people of Khartoum, in fact most people in the Sudan (Khartoum is the capital of that country) are among the most hospitable anywhere on Earth. Unfortunately, the Sudanese political climate makes securing a tourist visa a long and arduous affair. The many hours spent in lineups, talking to officials and opening your wallet mean that incredibly few tourists ever get into the country. The lucky, or should we say hardy few, who make it in, describe a land spread out over desserts, forests and mountains populated by an incredibly friendly people. The country is vast. Sudan is the largest country in Africa, the world’s largest Arab country and the 10th largest country overall in the world. No matter which corner you venture into, the inevitable invitation to visit the homes of the Sudanese mean that you will be sitting down to a piping hot cup of caffeine-free Karkadeyh (red), a delicious tea made of dried hibiscus.

Hibiscus has long been grown as a minor cash crop in the Sudan. The flower is resistant to drought, easy to grow and as such provides an income for many Sudanese women who tend small plots to supplement their family income. By the end of the 20th century, finished hibiscus production topped more than 23,000 tons annually. That’s a whole lot of Karkadeyh. Because the crop is so hardy, (like Sudanese tourists!), it grows very well organically. The flowers are harvested, dried and then transported to the markets of Khartoum, where it is packed and marketed for export.

We’re very pleased to offer this special product from the farmlands of Sudan. Excellent either as a blending component in custom herbals or brewed on its own, this organic hibiscus is among the finest available in the world. As a stand-alone tea, the taste is sweet, honey-ish and incredibly fresh. Blended in with other herbals, green or black teas, hibiscus imparts an added layer of tart astringency and floral character. We recommend experimenting. Enjoy!

Organic Credentials
The Metropolitan Tea Company Ltd.
Certified Organic by QMI Organic Inc.
Certificate #: 150 - 2008