Camellia sinensis

Camellia Tea Plant

The Camellia tea plant, Camellia sinensis, is the variety from which the drink tea is derived. It is an evergreen shrub that produces dainty, single, scented, white flowers with a blush of lemon. These appear in winter and spring and contrast well with the glossy, green foliage. It is a relatively compact plant with an upright growth habit and typically reaches 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide. Best results with this plant are achieved when it is grown in full sun on a well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It is tolerant of cool and humid climates as well as moderate frost once established. The Camellia tea plant is commonly grown as 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. It is also well suited to being maintained in a container. For hedging space plants 50 cm apart.

Tea Plants

Tea plants are scientifically known as Camellia sinensis. The new leaves are continuously picked and dried to produce the world popular drink. Tea plants are one of the most widely grown plants in the world.