Moujean Tea, Bahama Berry (Nashia inaguensis)
Fragrant Shrub with Herbal and Ornamental Appeal
Common Names: Moujean Tea, Bahama Berry, Bahamas Berry, Pineapple Verbena
Family: Verbenaceae
Origin: Bahamas, Caribbean
Moujean Tea (Nashia inaguensis), commonly known as Bahama Berry, is a highly aromatic shrub native to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. This evergreen shrub is prized for its fragrant leaves, which emit a sweet, herbal scent reminiscent of pineapple and vanilla, and its small, ornamental berries. The leaves of the Bahama Berry are often used to brew herbal tea, making it a favorite among tea lovers. Beyond its culinary uses, Moujean Tea is also grown as a beautiful ornamental plant, perfect for bonsai, container growing, or as a landscape shrub. Its small white flowers, which bloom throughout the year, attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a wonderful addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Foliage: Moujean Tea has small, oval, glossy green leaves that are highly aromatic. When crushed, the leaves release a sweet, citrusy, and herbal fragrance, often described as a blend of pineapple, vanilla, and honey. The leaves are used to brew a mildly sweet herbal tea with calming properties.
Flowers and Berries: The plant produces clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom throughout the year, followed by tiny, bright orange berries that add ornamental appeal.
Growth Habit: Moujean Tea is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4-6 feet tall, with a dense, bushy growth habit. It is often pruned into a compact form for bonsai or container growing.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Moujean Tea is primarily grown for its aromatic leaves, which are used to make herbal teas. The tea has a mild, sweet flavor with hints of pineapple and vanilla, and it is traditionally consumed for its calming and digestive benefits. The leaves are also used in potpourri or as a natural air freshener due to their delightful fragrance. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional Caribbean medicine for its soothing and relaxing properties.