What Are Chia Pet Seeds?

Anyone who owns a television has seen the holiday commercials for the Chia Pet, the small terra cotta animals that grow green hair. The name of the planter gets its name from the "Chia" seeds, which are spread onto the outside of the animal shape and grow. The Chia seeds used for the Chia Pet are from the Chia plant, Salvia hispanica, and should not be confused with food grade Chia seeds.

History

Chia pets, developed by Joseph Industries, made their first appearance in the marketplace in the early 1980s. Since then, they have been created in various animal shapes and beginning in the mid 1990s, Chia heads became a popular variation. In 2009, Joseph Industries introduced the first presidential commemorative edition titled Chia Obama. This special edition was available in two versions, Happy and Determined.

The Seeds

Chia seeds are an annual herb grown primarily in Mexico and Latin America. They are a member of the mint family. Chia seeds can be eaten whole, ground or as spouts. They can be grown beyond the sprouting stage in containers or in areas that receive full sun and have a sandy loam and will grow to approximately 3 feet in height. The small blue flowers bloom in mid-summer in tiny clusters. Like most members of the mint family, Chia can become invasive if not controlled.

Significance

Chia pets are novelty items often sold in grocery and drug stores as well as other outlets primarily during the Christmas holidays. Over the years, many cartoon characters have made an appearance as a Chia pets, including the Simpson, Scooby Do, Shrek and several Looney Toon animations.

Function

The Chia seeds are moistened and spread over the grooves of the animal or head. The inside of the body is then filled with water. Within several days, the Chia seeds sprout and because the seeds develop a gelatinous coating, the seeds adhere to the terra cotta pot. Nothing more is needed, other than water, to care for the Chia pet.

Time Frame

Chia seeds will sprout in three to five days, provided enough moisture is available. The sprouted seeds will continue to grow for up to several weeks.

Considerations

Food grade Chia seeds are said to have more Omega 3 fatty acids than flaxseed and are considered a good source of a number of vitamins and minerals. Health advocates are linking Chia seeds to reduction in blood pressure, increased energy and may help with joint pain.

Warning

If you plan to include Chia seeds in your diet, do not use the seeds that come with a Chia pet. Purchase only food grade Chia seeds which are available either online or at most health food stores.

References

• Chia Website
• 3 Reasons to Eat Chia Seeds, by Dr. Andrew Weil, Prevention Magazine
• Garden Web - Salvia hispanica