Does Tea Plant Grow into a Tree?

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and it comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. But have you ever wondered whether this plant grows into a tree or not? The answer is yes, it does.

What is the Tea Plant?

The tea plant, also known as Camellia sinensis, is a species of evergreen shrub that is native to Southeast Asia. It has shiny, dark-green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the fall. The tea plant can grow up to 9 meters tall if left untrimmed, and its leaves are used to make various types of tea, including green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and white tea.

Tea Plant Cultivation

Tea plants can be grown in various ways, but the traditional method is to plant them in rows on a flat or gently sloping terrain. The plants are usually spaced about one meter apart, and they need well-drained soil and a warm, humid climate to grow well. The tea plants are usually grown from cuttings or seedlings, and they take about two to three years to become mature enough to harvest.

Tea Plant Pruning

To ensure that the tea plants are bushy and full of leaves, regular pruning is necessary. Pruning also makes harvesting the tea leaves easier. Tea plants are usually pruned every two to three years, depending on the variety and climate. When pruning, the top of the plant is cut off at about waist height, and the side branches are trimmed to about half of their length.

Tea Plant Harvesting

Tea plants are usually harvested by hand, and the leaves are picked in stages throughout the growing season. For example, in the northern hemisphere, the first flush of leaves is generally harvested in the spring, and the second flush in the summer. The leaves are picked in the morning when they are still moist with dew to ensure their freshness. After picking, the leaves are withered, rolled, oxidized, and dried to create the various types of tea.

Conclusion

Although the tea plant is technically a shrub, it can grow into a tree if left untrimmed. However, the tea plant is usually pruned regularly to ensure that it remains bushy and full of leaves for easier harvesting. Whether it is grown as a tree or a shrub, the tea plant remains a vital part of the world's agricultural industry and a beloved beverage for many people around the world.