Camellia sinensis is better known as the tea plant, and is a versatile evergreen shrub native to East Asia. Plants typically grow to a height of six to fifteen feet (about 2 to 4.5 m). They have a similar spread, thus leading to a symmetrical shape.
It caries dark green, glossy leaves. These are leathery and serrated, and provide year-round appeal.
Between the months of October and January, the plant will display small white or light pink flowers. These are followed by seed pods.
The most valued part of Camellia sinensis are its young leaves, from which all traditional forms of tea are made, including green, black, and white teas. This makes for an added bonus for gardeners interested in growing it.
The plants shape fits nicely with a range of garden styles, including Asian-inspired, cottage, and woodland gardens.
Tea plants will thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9, an RHS hardiness zones H4 to H5.
How to Grow Camellia Sinensis in the Garden
The tea plant requires a well-drained fertile soil, with an acidic pH. It does best in a location with partial shade, as it may suffer leaf scorch if grown in full sun, particularly in hotter climates. It will tolerate full sun in cooler climates so long as it is adequately watered.
Propagation can be accomplished via seeds, cuttings, or by layering. Only fresh seeds will germinate, and should be sown in the autumn. If you want to use cuttings, then semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in the summer.
If planting a juvenile tea plant, then use a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Plantin the spring or autumn; this will allow the young plant to establish before any extreme summer or winter conditions. Once planted, itis important to keep the soil consistently moist, but do not allow to become waterlogged. Applying a mulch around the plant can help retain soil moisture.
Ornamental pruning should be done after the end of the flowering period, typically in late winter or early spring. This will encourage a bushier growth, and result in producing more young leaves for tea harvesting. An application of fertilizer, using an acidic plant food, in the spring helps to promote vigorous growth, and abundant blooms.
Though relatively hardy, Camellia sinensis is susceptible to camellia petal blight, root rot, and tea scale. Regular monitoring for these issues and an appropriate treatment will help to maintain the health and beauty of your tea plant.
Quick Camellia sinensis Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Camellia sinensis
Common Names: Tea Plant, Tea Shrub
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 7-9 RHS Hardiness Rating: H5.
Best Used For / Garden Location: Ideal for ornamental gardens and tea production. Best in a sheltered location with partial shade.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree.
Plant Height: 6-15 feet (1.8-4.5 m).
Plant Spread: 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m).
Blooms: Autumn and winter.
Flower Details: White with yellow stamens, fragrant.
Leaf Foliage: Glossy green, serrated edges.
Fruit: A spherical, 1-2 inches long capsule with 1-4 seeds.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Prefers partial shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Acidic, well-draining soil.
Sowing / planting: Plant in spring or autumn, preferably in a hole that's twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
Germination time: Seeds take 1 to 3 months to germinate at 70-85°F (21-29°C)).
Propagation: Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or seeds in autumn.
Plant Care: Requires regular watering and feeding with an ericaceous fertilizer.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for containers if given good drainage, acidic potting soil, and regular feeding.
Growing as a House plant: Can be grown indoors in a well-lit spot with good humidity.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Attracts pollinators like bees. Leaves are used to produce different types of tea. Tolerant to rabbits but not deer.
Pests and diseases: Susceptible to Camellia petal blight, scale insects, aphids, and mites.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: Camellia sinensis 'Sochi', notable for its cold hardiness. Camellia sinensis 'Rosea', known for its pink flowers.
Family: Theaceae, the Tea family.
Native: East Asia.
References and Further Reading: Camellia sinensis by the Missouri Botanical Garden, RHS guide to growing your own cup of tea in the garden.
Common Questions
Is Camellia sinensis a fragrant plant?
Although Camellia sinensis produces fragrant flowers these are usualy overlooked due to their small size. The main attraction of this plant is the foliage, which can be used to make tea.
Is Camellia sinensis invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Not considered invasive in the USA. Although it can spread under ideal conditions, it does not typically pose a threat to native ecosystems.
How do I remove Camellia sinensis from my garden?
To remove Camellia sinensis, first cut back the plant and then dig up the root system. As mature plants have extensive root systems, the complete removal can be difficult.
Summary
Camellia sinensis is native to East Asia and prefers to grow in partial shade in acidic, well-drained soil. This evergreen shrub produces green, black, white, and oolong tea.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Camellia sinensis. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Camellia japonica, Jungle Geranium, and Japanese Pieris plants in the garden, and advice on how to create a garden that never stops blooming.
