Camellia Sinensis

Camellia sinensis is the sole botanical source of true tea — black, green, white, oolong, yellow, and pu-erh all originate from the same species. The plant thrives in acidic, well-drained soils at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 meters. The two main varietals differ significantly: var. sinensis has smaller leaves and withstands cooler climates, producing the nuanced teas of China, Japan, and Taiwan; var. assamica bears larger leaves suited to tropical lowlands, yielding the bold, malty teas of India and Sri Lanka. A third varietal, var. cambodiensis, is primarily used for hybridization. Tea bushes begin producing harvestable leaves at three to five years of age and can remain productive for over a century when properly maintained.