Camellia japonica var. sinensis (Tea Camellia, Tea Shrub, Tea Plant, Tea Tree)


Botanical Information

FamilyTheaceae
GenusCamellia
Speciesjaponica
Varietysinensis
CategoryTropicals, Woody
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginNative to East and South Asia.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
Leaves contain 4% caffeine and can be used for tea.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7-9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone8
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3-H6
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-17.8-(-1.1)
Temperature (°F)0-30
Height1-2 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodJanuary, October, November, December

Description and Growing Information

ShapeUpright, bushy form.
LandscapeCan be grown in containers but best grown as a hedge, screen or foundation plant.
PropagationPropagated by cuttings.
CultivationBest grown in rich, moist soils in partial sun.
Notable SpecimensHarry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando, Florida, United States of America.
HabitatFound in subtropic and tropic areas with consistent rainfall along mountain slopes.
Leaf DescriptionThe leaves are glossy, pale green with serrated edges and grow 5-15 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. The underside has short, spiked hairs which as they mature they turn darker green.
Flower DescriptionThe pale yellow-white flowers are 2-4 cm around and have 7-8 petals.

Photographs