How2Day: Properties of Camellia

Camellia is a genus of flowering evergreen shrub species, the most famous of which is the camellia sinesis or common tea plant. For centuries humans have used camellia to make one of the world's most popular caffeinated beverages second only to water, according to Rediff.com. Though native to Asia, camellia is now grown around the world in places with generally mild, humid climates.

This shrub or small tree produces shiny, elliptical, mid- to dark green leaves that are typically 1 to 3 inches long and between 1 and 2 inches wide. Most camellias grow to heights between 5 and 10 feet, though some cultivars can grow as tall as 50 feet. Certain cultivars also have larger leaves up to 10 inches long and 5 inches wide. Flowers come in a variety of colors like white, yellow, cream, red, purple and pink, depending on the variety. These cup-shaped flowers are typically around 1-inch in diameter.

Camelias are generally hardy plants that can survive a range of temperatures and soil types, but they cannot tolerate long, cold winters. Most camellias prefer a climate with wet summers and dry winters, but the overall climate should be decidedly humid. They also like well-drained acidic to neutral soils and shaded or semi-shaded locations. Camellias can grow in USDA zones 9 to 11. Common propagation methods include grafting, budding and air layering.

Camellia plants produce the majority of the world's tea, including black, green and oolong teas. Different harvesting methods produce different teas. For example, black tea comes from wilted, crushed and later dried camellia leaves whereas green tea production involves steaming and drying fresh, young camellia leaves. Early Grey, pekoe, assam and gunpowder teas all come from the camellia sinesis plant. These are often flavored with flowers like jasmine and rose to produce aromatic herbal teas.

Camellia is most likely native to China, according to Floridata.com, where it grows at high elevations in humid, cool climates as well as in more tropical, coastal areas. India and Sri Lanka also are important centers of camellia and tea production.

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