Fancy growing your own tea? It's now possible in our regions thanks to this new variety selected by French nurserymen, experts in the production of hardy and aromatic tea.
The Théier Théojardin (Camellia sinensis in Latin) forms a bushy shrub with a habit of 1 m in all directions, but can reach up to 2 m in width at ripeness if not pruned. It bears evergreen leaves of a beautiful glossy green and produces white flowers around a heart of yellow stamens, which bloom throughout autumn.
How to grow it in the garden or in a pot?
It is best grown in heather soil, preferably in a mild and humid oceanic climate. Capable of withstanding temperatures of around -10 °C for a short period, it should be placed in a sheltered spot from cold winds in winter and protected from the scorching sun in summer. Elsewhere, it can be successfully grown in a pot on a terrace or balcony, provided the shrub is shielded from the sun. In winter, it will be necessary to protect the plant and pot from severe frosts and icy winds.
Pairing it in the garden
It suits all styles of garden, whether rustic, Japanese, romantic, or wild, as long as the soil is acidic. Planted with Rhododendrons, Pieris, and Magnolia, this shrub adds volume to a flowerbed and provides a screen against the view all year round.
Tea harvesting
The leaves of this tea plant will satisfy even the most discerning home tea enthusiasts! Harvesting takes place in mid-May. I recommend picking only the first three leaves from each shoot, as these are the most aromatic. It takes between 4 and 5 kg of fresh leaves to produce 1 kg of dried tea. If you are a heavy tea drinker, this may not suffice for your daily consumption, but you will enjoy the pleasure of tasting a truly local production!
To learn more:
Comments