large leaf tea camellia

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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The large leaf tea camellia, or Camellia sinensis, is a remarkable evergreen shrub that's not only stunning in the garden but also highly prized for producing genuine tea leaves. If you’ve ever dreamed of brewing your own fresh tea from home, this aromatic and lush plant is the key. With its glossy, deep green foliage and delicate white blooms, the large leaf tea camellia thrives in New Zealand gardens, offering both ornamental appeal and practical use.

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

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Growing the Large Leaf Tea Camellia

Camellia sinensis is known for its large, pointed leaves, which provide the distinctive taste and aroma of traditional tea. It’s a hardy shrub that prefers dappled shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Well-draining, slightly acidic soil is ideal for healthy, vigorous plants. Once established, the large leaf tea camellia is drought-tolerant, making it perfect for Kiwi gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, rewarding shrub.

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain size and shape, and to encourage the fresh growth needed for harvesting tea. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In late winter or early spring, feed with a slow-release fertiliser suitable for camellias.

Using Large Leaf Tea Camellia for Homegrown Tea

One of the most delightful features of the large leaf tea camellia is the ability to produce your own tea at home. Harvest the young, tender leaves and process them for green, black, or oolong tea depending on your preference. The process is simple and rewarding—from picking to brewing, you’re in control of every step.

Beyond its culinary uses, Camellia sinensis adds year-round texture and structure to mixed shrub borders. It pairs beautifully with other garden favourites such as Camellia 'Ballet Dancer' and Camellia 'Brushfields Yellow', both offering lovely floral displays alongside your tea camellia.

Companion Plants for Tea Camellias

If you’re planning a woodland or semi-shaded garden, consider planting a variety of camellias for continuous blooms and interest. Shrubs like Camellia 'Black Tie', Camellia 'Black Lace', and Camellia 'Buttons and Bows' provide a variety of flower shapes and colours that complement the subtle beauty of the large leaf tea camellia.

For contrast in foliage and form, neighbouring plants like Rhododendron Unique, Leucadendron Julie, or Grevillea Billy Wings (Grevillea lavandulacea Billy Wings) all thrive in similar conditions and add a fresh dynamic to your garden design.

Why Choose Large Leaf Tea Camellia?

Adding a large leaf tea camellia to your landscape brings both beauty and function. It’s a striking focal point that asks little in return but delivers lush, evergreen foliage and aromatic leaves perfect for your personal tea ritual. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or simply seeking a unique, easy-care shrub, Camellia sinensis is a rewarding addition to any New Zealand garden.

Explore our full range of camellias and companion shrubs, including Camellia 'Brushfields Yellow', Hydrangea 'Miss Belgium', and Westringia fruticosa Zena, to create a diverse and beautiful outdoor space.

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.