TeaFYI

Kenyan Purple Tea

TRFK 306/1 (Purple cultivar)

Kenyan Purple Tea black tea tea — watercolor illustration
Oxidation 85%
Caffeine 32.0 mg
L-Theanine 3.5 mg
Harvest Year-round (peak January-March)
Altitude 1500-2200m
Leaf Type One bud two leaves, purple-pigmented

Description

Kenyan Purple Tea is a specialty varietal developed by the Tea Research Foundation of Kenya (TRFK 306/1) from a natural mutation of Camellia sinensis grown at high elevations in the Rift Valley. The leaves contain high levels of anthocyanins — the same antioxidant pigment found in blueberries — giving them a distinctive purple color. The processed tea produces a unique, light-bodied infusion with a smooth, slightly sweet flavor, subtle berry notes, and lower caffeine than standard Kenyan black teas. It has gained international attention as a functional tea.

Part of the Beverage FYI Family