Used to make most traditional caffeinated teas. The leaves are glossy green with serrated edges and are similar in both shape and size to a bay leaf. Considered hardy to Zone 7, Camellia sinensis can be cultivated in a backyard or in a container. Sun to part shade. Thrives in well-drained sandy soil and shouldn’t be harvested for tea until it’s 3 years old. Until then, pretty white flowers appear in late spring and into summer. Harvesting must be done by hand, as only the top leaves should be plucked. Pluck a group (also called a ‘flush’) of leaves, taking care to include a small portion of the stem containing two to five leaves and the tip.
Camellia sinensis ‘Large Leaf’ Tea
Description
Used to make most traditional caffeinated teas. The leaves are glossy green with serrated edges and are similar in both shape and size to a bay leaf. Considered hardy to Zone 7, Camellia sinensis can be cultivated in a backyard or in a container. Sun to part shade. Thrives in well-drained sandy soil and shouldn’t be harvested for tea until it’s 3 years old. Until then, pretty white flowers appear in late spring and into summer. Harvesting must be done by hand, as only the top leaves should be plucked. Pluck a group (also called a ‘flush’) of leaves, taking care to include a small portion of the stem containing two to five leaves and the tip.