What Plant Does Tea Come From? A Complete Guide to the Tea Plant
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world—but many people are surprised to learn that all true tea comes from a single plant. Whether you’re drinking green tea, black tea, white tea, or oolong, they all share the same botanical origin.
In this guide, we’ll answer the common question: what plant does tea come from?, explain the different varieties of the tea plant, and show how processing—not different plants—creates the many types of tea we enjoy.
What Plant Does Tea Come From?
All true tea comes from the plant Camellia sinensis.
Camellia sinensis is an evergreen shrub native to East Asia and has been cultivated for thousands of years. Its leaves and buds are harvested and processed in different ways to produce the teas we know today.
If it doesn’t come from Camellia sinensis, it’s technically not tea, but an herbal infusion (tisane).
The Two Main Types of Tea Plant
There are two primary varieties of the tea plant, each with distinct characteristics:
Camellia sinensis var. sinensis
- Smaller leaves
- Grows best in cooler climates
- Commonly used for green tea, white tea, and many high-quality teas
- Typical of China, Japan, and parts of Korea
Camellia sinensis var. assamica
- Larger leaves
- Thrives in warmer, more humid regions
- Often used for black tea and strong-flavoured teas
- Native to India and Southeast Asia
Both varieties can produce any type of tea depending on how the leaves are processed.
If Tea Comes From One Plant, Why Are There So Many Types?
The difference between green, black, white, and oolong tea comes down to processing, not the plant itself.
Tea Types Explained
| Tea Type | Oxidation Level | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| White Tea | Minimal | Delicate, light, subtly sweet |
| Green Tea | None | Fresh, grassy, vegetal |
| Oolong Tea | Partial | Floral, complex, smooth |
| Black Tea | Full | Bold, rich, malty |
| Matcha | None (powdered) | Creamy, umami, vibrant |
Oxidation is a natural chemical reaction that occurs when tea leaves are exposed to air—controlling it changes flavour, colour, and aroma.
Where Does the Tea Plant Grow?
The tea plant grows best in regions with:
- Mild temperatures
- High humidity
- Well-drained, acidic soil
- Elevations between 600–2,000 meters
Major tea-growing regions include:
- China
- Japan
- India
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Vietnam
Each region’s climate and soil (often referred to as terroir) influences the taste of the tea.
Is Herbal Tea Made From the Tea Plant?
No. Herbal teas do not come from the tea plant.
Herbal infusions are made from:
- Flowers (like chamomile)
- Roots (like ginger)
- Leaves (like mint)
- Bark or fungi (like chaga)
They are naturally caffeine-free and technically not true teas, even though we commonly call them “tea.”
Why Knowing the Tea Plant Matters
Understanding where tea comes from helps you:
- Choose higher-quality tea
- Understand caffeine content
- Appreciate flavour differences
- Brew tea properly
- Avoid confusing true tea with herbal blends
If you enjoy tea for both flavour and wellness, knowing its origin makes a real difference.
Explore High-Quality Teas
If you’re looking to explore real teas made from Camellia sinensis, browse our curated collection of specialty teas.
Each tea is carefully sourced for quality, flavour, and freshness—perfect whether you’re new to tea or a long-time enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is green tea and black tea from the same plant?
Yes. Both come from Camellia sinensis. The difference is how the leaves are processed.
Does the tea plant contain caffeine?
Yes. All true tea naturally contains caffeine, though levels vary by type and preparation.
Is matcha made from the same plant?
Yes. Matcha is made from shade-grown Camellia sinensis leaves that are stone-ground into a fine powder.