Why did colonists primarily use *Ceanothus americanus* as a beverage substitute?

Answer

To avoid boycotting imported taxable British tea.

During the American Revolution, colonists used this plant as a domestically sourced hot beverage alternative to maintain cultural rituals while avoiding goods taxed by Great Britain.

Why did colonists primarily use *Ceanothus americanus* as a beverage substitute?
foodplantEdibilityHerbtea