Large Leaf Tea

Large Leaf Tea

5 Gallon
$199.00
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Large Leaf Tea
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Large Leaf Tea

Camellia sinensis

The ornamental evergreen shrub that is the source of all true tea, suitable for home cultivation.

$199.00
Container sizeSize guide 5 Gallon

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Description

Large Leaf Tea is the very same plant that produces all non-herbal tea—green, black, white, oolong, and pu-erh. It is an elegant, evergreen shrub with glossy, leathery leaves and fragrant white flowers. While primarily cultivated for its new leaf growth (flush) which is harvested for tea production, it also makes a handsome and unique ornamental shrub. Its slow growth, dense habit, and tolerance for pruning make it suitable for hedges, containers, or as a specimen in a tea or sensory garden.

  • The Source of True Tea: All traditional tea (green, black, white, oolong) is made from the processed leaves and buds of this plant.

  • Ornamental & Functional: Features attractive, glossy foliage, fragrant fall flowers, and can be harvested for home tea-making.

  • Slow-Growing & Dense: Forms a compact, multi-stemmed shrub that responds well to shaping and frequent harvesting/pruning.

  • Acid-Loving & Deer Resistant: Requires the same acidic, well-drained soil as other camellias and is generally avoided by deer.

  • Unique Garden Conversation Piece: A living piece of history and culture for the curious gardener.

Quick Facts

Processed facts

  • Mature height: 5–15 ft
  • Mature spread: 4–12 ft

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  • Features:Large, leathery oblong leaves with prominent veins and serrated edges in deep green. Fragrant white flowers with golden stamens bloom in fall/winter. Slow-growing evergreen shrub/tree with ornamental bark texture.
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Light Needs: Dappled shade to partial sun
  • Key Advantages:Edible foliage (tea production),Deer resistant,Winter blooming,Acid soil specialist
  • Soil Requirement: Well-drained sandy loam (pH 4.5–6.0)
  • Tea Production:Leaves harvested in early spring for Green tea (unoxidized),Oolong tea (partially oxidized),Black tea (fully oxidized)

Faqs

Q: Can I really make tea from my own plant?
A: Yes! To make green tea, harvest the newest, youngest leaves and buds in spring, steam or pan-fry them to stop oxidation, then dry. For black tea, wilt the leaves, roll them to bruise, allow them to fully oxidize (turn dark), then dry. The process defines the tea type.

Q: What are its growing requirements?
A: It thrives in conditions similar to camellias: partial shade (morning sun/afternoon shade ideal), acidic, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture. It is less cold-hardy than many ornamental camellias, tolerating temperatures down to about 20°F (Zone 8). In Zone 9a, it is generally suitable but benefits from frost protection.

📍 Primary Delivery Area · San Francisco Bay Area

Local delivery across the Bay Area — and beyond.

San Francisco Bay Area is our primary local delivery market. Victory Nursery also serves additional California markets and selected extended delivery areas by arrangement.

Regular local delivery: San Francisco, Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, Marin, Tracy / Mountain House and surrounding service areas.

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5 Gallon

5 Gallon

A popular size for shrubs, screening plants and young trees. Large enough to make an immediate difference in the garden while still manageable for most residential projects.

Explore 5 Gallon Plants

Gallon describes the container size, not a guaranteed plant height. Individual plants vary. Contact our nursery for current measurements.

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