Tea

Camellia sinensis

Native to:
Hainan, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Theaceae
Genus:
Camellia
Species:
Camellia sinensis
USDA Symbol:
CASI16

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
1500 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
jan,feb,oct,nov,dec
Bloom Colors:
white
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★★★★★ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, birds
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers high organic matter content

Where to Buy

Nationwide Seller