Camellia sinensis aka Black Tea

Camellia sinensis is the tea plant, an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the tea family, Theaceae. Its native range runs from the eastern Himalayas to southern China. It also includes northern Indo-China and the island of Hainan. This plant grows in a subtropical climate. Growers harvest its leaves and buds to make tea. Different harvest and processing methods produce white, green, oolong, and black teas.

The plant grows slowly and forms an upright, rounded bush. Garden plants reach about 6–15 feet [1.8–4.6 metres] tall. RHS gives a lower range of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Spread reaches about 8–10 feet [2.4–3.05 metres], depending on the source. Pruning can keep plants at 4–6 feet [1.2–1.8 metres]. The bark is light brown. Glossy, dark green leaves stay on the plant year-round. Each leaf has a firm, leathery feel and toothed edges. The leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Their undersides are paler green.

Fragrant white flowers open from October through December. Some petals have a pink tint around the yellow stamens. Flowers grow alone or in small groups among the leaves. Plants may begin to flower at about four years old. Bees visit the blooms. Smooth capsules start green, then turn dark brown as they ripen. Each capsule has three lobes and splits to show seeds. Fruit can take up to a year to mature.

Give this shrub fertile soil that drains well but stays moist. Acid soil suits it best, though RHS also lists neutral soil. Part shade is the usual garden choice. NCSU also reports good growth in full sun and drought tolerance. Shelter it from strong winds and hot afternoon sun. Bark or leaf mulch helps protect the root zone. Plant shallowly rather than burying the roots too deeply. USDA zones 7–9 provide the clearest general hardiness range. RHS rates it H4 for UK gardens. Prune after flowering to remove dead growth or shape the bush.

Use tea plants as hedges, screens, or shrubs in woodland gardens. They also suit borders and pots, with some resistance to deer. Leaves and buds provide edible tea material and contain caffeine. NCSU also records medicinal use. Aphids, scale insects, mites, and vine weevils may cause damage. Root rot, leaf blight, and petal blight are possible problems. Viruses and cankers can also affect the plant.