Tea 201 - Varietals - What's in a breed? (Camelia Sinensis)

🌱 The Varietals of Camellia Sinensis

☕ The Mother of All Tea

Tea. Camellia sinensis. By now, you should be well familiar with these words and how they are synonymous with each other.

This evergreen plant thrives in warm climates, adorned with delicate white flowers and yellow stamens. It is the origin of all true tea. But wait—are you ready for some mind-blowing news? 🤯

There are actually three varietals of Camellia sinensis! Gasp! 😲

1️⃣ Camellia sinensis var sinensis

• This varietal has smaller leaves and loves cool, high mountains.
• Commonly found in central China and Japan.
• It grows up to 10 feet tall but is bush-like, unlike the tree varieties.
• Often used to produce Chinese and Japanese teas.

2️⃣ Camellia sinensis var assamica

• This varietal thrives in low-altitude, tropical regions like Northeast India, Yunnan, and Szechuan.
• It is much larger than its counterpart, potentially reaching 65 feet tall! 🌳
• Commonly used for Assam and Yunnan teas.
• Due to its size, it is not ideal for backyard cultivation.

3️⃣ Camellia sinensis var cambodiensis (The Java Bush)

• Also known as Camellia sinensis parvifolia.
• Primarily used for cross-breeding rather than commercial tea production.
• Features multi-trunked growth (like assamica), but is shorter in height (like sinensis).
• Rarely cultivated on its own.

3️⃣ Camellia sinensis var Japonica

• The primary variant used in Japanese tea production.
• Best suited for green teas, more specifically shade-grown green teas.

🍵 Challenge for Tea Lovers

Just when you thought tea was as simple as one plant... 😉

The next time you sip your tea, ask yourself:
👉 Which varietal am I drinking?

Let me know if you want any tweaks! ☕😊