BLACK TEA (CAMELLIA SINENSIS) - PLANTS

Black Tea and Green Tea is removed from the same tree.  Camellia Sinensis Assamica is a larger-leafed varietal of the tea plant that is typically used to produce black Tea. Originating in the Assam district of India, it grows in warm, moist climates and is prolific in sub-tropical forests.

Camellia Sinensis Sinensis is a smaller-leafed variety native to China that is typically used to make green and White Teas. It evolved as a shrub growing in sunny regions with drier, cooler climates. It thrives in mountainous regions because it has a high tolerance for cold.

What makes Black Tea different from Green Tea is that during the production process, the Tea leaves are allowed to fully oxidize before they are heat-processed and dried.

During oxidation, oxygen interacts with the Tea plant’s cell walls to turn the leaves the rich dark brown to black color that black tea leaves are famous for. Oxidation alters the flavor profile of a Black Tea as well, helping add malty, fruity or even smoky notes, depending on the Tea.