Camellia sinensis – Tea Plant
Camellia sinensis – Tea Plant
Camellia sinensis (Tea Plant) is an evergreen shrub native to East Asia, known for its young leaves and buds used to produce tea. It thrives in subtropical climates and is prized for its role in green, black, and oolong tea production.
Grow your own Camellia sinensis, the legendary tea plant used for centuries to produce green, black, white, and oolong tea. This evergreen shrub is prized for its fragrant white flowers, glossy green leaves, and its ability to thrive in a variety of climates. Perfect for homegrown tea production, ornamental hedging, and container gardening, this versatile plant is a must-have for tea enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Key Features:
- Botanical Name: Camellia sinensis
- Common Names: Tea Plant, Tea Shrub, Tea Tree
- Family: Theaceae
- Native Region: East Asia (China, India, Japan)
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Mature Height: 1–3 meters (3–10 feet), can grow taller if unpruned
- Leaves: Small, dark green, leathery, with serrated edges
- Flowers: Small, white, fragrant flowers with yellow centers
- Fruit: Small, round capsules containing 1–3 seeds
- Seed Count per kg: Approximately 1250 seeds per kilogram
- Season: All Year
Growing Conditions:
- Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil Requirements: Well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5–6.5)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but not waterlogging
- Temperature Tolerance: Hardy in USDA zones 7–9; can be grown in pots in colder climates
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity
- Pruning: Benefits from regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage leaf production
Landscaping & Uses:
- Grow your own tea at home – perfect for fresh, organic tea leaves
- Ideal as an ornamental hedge or potted plant
- Suitable for tea farms, botanical gardens, and edible landscapes
- Attracts pollinators with its fragrant flowers
