Ivan Tea | Fireweed Herb, Ivan Chai, Epilobium angustifolium

What Is Ivan Tea?

Ivan tea, or Ivan chai, is the Russian name for a traditional herbal tea made from fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium, now often classified as Chamaenerion angustifolium). Fireweed, also called rosebay willowherb or great willowherb, is a tall perennial that grows across the cool northern regions of Europe, Asia and North America.

The plant takes its English name from its habit of being one of the first plants to cover land after forest fires. In summer, whole hillsides and clearings turn pink-purple with its tall flower spikes, and its narrow, willow-like leaves give it the name willowherb.

Ivan chai has been drunk in Russia for centuries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, fireweed tea from the village of Koporye near St. Petersburg was so popular that it was exported to Europe, and it was known as Koporye tea. Traditionally the leaves are rolled and lightly fermented, much like black tea, which gives a darker, richer cup.

Ivan tea brews a golden to amber cup with a smooth, mild, slightly sweet and floral taste, without the bitterness of black tea. It is naturally caffeine free and is often enjoyed as an everyday tea with honey, lemon or berries.

Our Ivan tea contains only dried fireweed herb with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.