Camellia sinensis, the true tea plant, is the source of all traditional teas — including green, black, white, and oolong tea. Native to Asia, this evergreen shrub features glossy green leaves and delicate white blooms with golden centers. It’s a beautiful and productive plant, perfect for home gardens, patios, or tea enthusiasts who want to grow and harvest their own fresh tea leaves. With patience and care, you can enjoy the rewarding experience of brewing tea straight from your garden.
🌱 Germination & Growing Information:
- Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5) enriched with organic matter
- Temperature: Ideal range 18°C–25°C (64°F–77°F)
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds 2–3 cm (1 inch) deep in moist soil
- Germination Time: 30–60 days (may take longer for hard-coated seeds)
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged
- Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full sun
- Spacing: Space plants 1–1.5 meters (3–5 ft) apart for optimal growth
- Fertilizer: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer (like azalea feed) every 4–6 weeks
- Pruning: Trim regularly to maintain bushy shape and promote leaf production
- Harvest: Pick young, tender leaves for tea making once the plant is established (2–3 years)
- Special Care: Protect from frost and direct harsh sunlight in early stages