growing camellia sinensis

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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Growing Camellia sinensis, also known as the Tea Camellia, is an exciting and rewarding journey for gardeners in New Zealand. Renowned as the plant behind your daily cup of green or black tea, Camellia sinensis is a versatile evergreen shrub that thrives in our temperate climate. With glossy leaves and delicate white flowers, this species isn’t just functional—it’s also a beautiful addition to any ornamental or edible garden. Whether you’re keen on producing your own tea or simply want a handsome, low-maintenance shrub, growing Camellia sinensis could be just the project for you.

Camellia sinensis

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Camellia sinensis, commonly known as the Camellia Tea Plant or Tea Shrub, is the variety from which tea is derived. It is an evergreen shrub that produces dainty, single, scented, white flowers with a blush of lemon. It typically reaches 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide. Camellia sinensis is commonly grown as a specimen, clipped into a hedge, added to a mixed planting, used in cottage or 'white' gardens, planted around outdoor living areas, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants.

Camellia sinensis

Camelia sinensis flowers and foliage beside a tea pot.

Suited to regions:
Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:
Shrubs
Height:
2.00 m
Spread:
1.50 m
Flowering time:
Spring, Winter
Garden uses:
Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:
Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, White

More species and varieties of Camellia

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Why Grow Camellia sinensis at Home?

Cultivating your own Camellia sinensis lets you enjoy garden-fresh tea and a lovely year-round feature in your landscape. Homegrown tea is free from chemicals, and the process of harvesting young leaves, drying, and brewing them connects you to centuries-old traditions. This robust plant also attracts pollinators and makes a refined companion for other flowering shrubs like Camellia 'Buttons and Bows' or Lavandula angustifolia.

Ideal Conditions for Growing Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis prefers a sheltered position with dappled light—consider planting it under the filtered shade of larger trees or alongside showy cultivars like Camellia 'Brushfields Yellow'. Make sure the soil is free-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5). Mulching helps keep roots cool and moist, mimicking the plant’s native conditions. Protection from harsh afternoon sun and persistent winds is important, especially while young plants establish.

Planting and Care Tips

When growing Camellia sinensis, space plants about a metre apart to encourage airflow and healthy growth. Water regularly, particularly over dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. Each spring, feed with a slow-release organic fertiliser to ensure lush foliage and frequent picking. Pruning after flowering not only shapes your shrub but encourages a flush of tender new growth—perfect for tea-making.

When planning your garden, Camellia sinensis pairs well with a tapestry of evergreen and flowering shrubs. Try combining with architectural accents such as Yucca Bright Edge, or classic camellias like Camellia 'Black Tie' and Camellia 'Ballet Dancer' for a stunning contrast of forms and colours.

Harvesting and Brewing Your Own Tea

The best tea comes from the youngest leaves at the tip of each shoot. To begin harvesting, wait until your camellia is at least three years old. Pluck the top two leaves and a bud, then wash, wilt, and dry them to your taste—whether for green or black tea. Growing Camellia sinensis at home means you can experiment, discovering your ideal brew.

Explore More Shrub Varieties

If you’re inspired by the elegant resilience of Camellia sinensis, you’ll love exploring further options like Camellia 'Black Lace', Gardenia Tahiti, or Leptospermum Mesmer Eyes. These companions not only complement your tea camellia but help you create a garden that is both productive and beautiful all year round.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.