PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect sunlight; tolerates partial shade; avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to 0°C for short periods; optimal growth at 18–25°C; protect young plants from heavy frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Glossy elliptical blades with serrated margins; young shoots have pale green, downy new growth
- Flower: Fragrant white cup-shaped blooms with 5–7 petals and bright yellow stamens
- Stem: Woody branching stems; pruned to low hedges in commercial tea plantations
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist foliage to raise humidity in dry conditions
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Pause fertilization in late autumn and winter when growth slows
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon per pot every 3 months and mix lightly into the top 1 cm of soilPruning
- Prune in late winter to maintain a compact, bushy shape; remove dead or diseased branches
- Harvest young top 2–3 leaves and terminal bud regularly to encourage new growth for tea production
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Trim back leggy stems to promote dense, uniform growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion
Humans: Processed and fresh leaves are safe for human consumption; no known toxic effects
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hospitality and mindfulness; central to traditional tea ceremonies in East Asian cultures
Usage: Commercial production of black, green, oolong, and white teas; ornamental hedge or potted specimen
