The Tea Plant: Camellia Sinensis

Where all tea comes from

Camellia Sinensis

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Camellia sinensis is the remarkable plant behind every true tea. From the same leaf come countless expressions—black, green, white, oolong, and purple—each shaped by elevation, climate, soil, and craftsmanship. Grown in high mountain mist or sunlit volcanic soil, Camellia sinensis responds to its environment like a fine wine grape, capturing the spirit of place in every harvest. At Elevation Tea, we honor this leaf not just for what it is, but for what it can become—when grown with care, and brewed with intention

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​Camellia sinensis is a small, evergreen shrub with shiny, pointed leaves and fragrant white blossoms that resemble wild roses. The leaves are deep green with finely serrated edges, and new growth often appears soft and downy—these tender buds are prized for high-quality teas. In the wild, the plant can grow into a small tree, but on tea farms it's typically kept waist- to shoulder-height for hand-plucking. Hardy and adaptable, it thrives in misty highlands, volcanic slopes, and subtropical hillsides—where soil, altitude, and weather give each tea its distinct character.