Plant · P-933

Tea

Camellia sinensis

Tea is an evergreen shrub or small tree grown for its leaves which are processed into green black white and oolong tea depending on oxidation - the same plant supplies every style. Two principal varieties differ in cold tolerance: the China type var. sinensis is hardier and the Assam type var. assamica needs milder winters. Wants acidic well-drained soil in the pH 4.5-6 range and is intolerant of alkaline or calcareous ground. Prefers ample and fairly steady moisture through the growing season - 70 to 310 cm annual precipitation reported - though established plants tolerate heat and short drought. Grows in full sun to partial shade; light shade from taller trees suits it well. Typically 10-15 ft tall and 6-8 ft wide though commercial plantings are pruned to 4-5 ft for hand or machine harvest. Slow growing; propagated from seed or cuttings.