July 7, 2006

This Bud’s for You

Numi Flowering Teas

You: the perfect party planner. Champagne (chilling). Salmon (marinating). Grill (heating). Right on schedule, as usual.

Wait. What’s that? Wilting peonies atop the table? Shame on you.

Wilt not, dear hostess. Just boil a pot of water and throw in some buds, courtesy of Numi Tea. The Oakland-based brother-and-sister operation is peddling a new line of flowering teas. White, green, and black tea leaves are hand-sewn into dried flowers, which blossom right before your eyes when steeped in hot water.

The fun part is choosing the vessel. Try Jade Fortune (green tea with wild petals) in an oversize wine glass. Let Lavender Dream (hibiscus and lavender entwined with white tea) bloom in a clear pot. Or combine several varieties in a vase to create an intriguing centerpiece.

The transformation is sure to strike up chatter.

About how you never fail to entertain your guests.

Available at Andronico’s, 1200 Irving Street, at Funston Avenue (415-661-3220); Whole Foods, 1765 California Street, at Franklin Street (415-674-0500); online at numitea.com.