The plant from which black, green and white tea are made, with glossy evergreen leaves and small, nodding single white flowers in autumn. Clip and harvest the young leaf tips for home-grown tea.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Tea Camellia
Botanically, Camellia sinensis is a moderate-growing shrub in the Theaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in autumn and winter.
Where to grow Tea Camellia
Tea Camellia suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Tea Camellia does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 90 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Tea Camellia does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Tea Camellia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Tea Camellia in the garden
Tea Camellia earns its place for edible harvests, a fast screen or informal hedge and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Tea Camellia with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Tea Camellia
Plant Sale lists Tea Camellia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
