Tea Plant

(Camellia sinensis)

Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Camellia sinensis, commonly known as Tea Plant, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the understory of evergreen forests in East Asia, particularly China. It is typically kept below 2 m (6.6 ft) in cultivation for ease of leaf harvest but can grow taller if left unpruned. The plant features glossy green leaves that are 4–15 cm (1.6–5.9 in) long and 2–5 cm (0.79–1.97 in) broad, with the younger leaves having short white hairs on the underside. The fragrant flowers are yellow-white, 2.5–4 cm (0.98–1.57 in) in diameter, with seven or eight petals, blooming in the fall or winter. The caffeine-rich leaves are the primary source for tea production, with the tip and the first two to three leaves being the most desirable for their high-quality chemical composition.

The Tea Plant is valued for its leaves, which are processed into various types of tea. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers, and it is also grown for its medicinal properties. In cultivation, it requires acidic, well-drained soil and can tolerate full to part sun. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain a manageable size and to facilitate leaf harvest. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to pests such as scale insects and mites. Tea plants are not typically grown for their invasive potential, but they can become invasive in some regions outside their native range, so caution is advised.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 6-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Fall, Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to the understory of evergreen forests in East Asia, particularly China

Other Names

Common Names: Black Tea, Tea, Teabush, Teaplant, Japanese Tea, Common Tea, Tea Shrub, Tea Tree, Green Tea, Teestrauch

Scientific Names: , Camellia sinensis, Camellia sinensis var. sinensis, Camellia sinensis subsp. formosensis, Camellia formosensis, Camellia sinensis f. macrophylla, Thea lanceolata, Thea sinensis var. macrophylla, Camellia sinensis f. rosea, Thea formosensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze