The Tea Plant

The tea plant, scientifically known as Camellia sinensis, is a small evergreen shrub or tree native to Asia. It has glossy green leaves and produces white or yellowish flowers. The leaves are harvested, processed, and dried to produce various types of tea, such as green, black, white, and oolong, depending on how they are treated. The plant thrives in subtropical to tropical climates with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Its cultivation requires careful attention to plucking, processing, and aging to develop the flavor profiles that make tea one of the world's most popular beverages.