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Full Sun
1 ft./yr Growth
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Premium Potting Mix
Nutrient-rich blend for healthy growth
+ $19
Premium Root Stimulant
Boost soil and reduces transplant shock
+ $12
MitoGrow™ Pots and Planters
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Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis) Information
About The Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)
Grow your own tea at home with the Tea Plant! This glossy-leaved evergreen shrub is the actual plant behind every cup of black, green, white, and oolong tea you've ever sipped. With dark green, serrated leaves and delicate white blooms, this slow-growing beauty brings serious garden-to-cup energy to your space while staying compact enough for indoor growing.
Whether you're planning to harvest your own tea leaves or just want the ultimate conversation starter, this plant delivers both beauty and bragging rights.
Planting Tips
Plant your Tea Plant in well-draining, acidic soil in a container with drainage holes, or outdoors in USDA zones 6-9. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place in full to partial sun for best results. Regular watering helps establish young plants, but once mature, it becomes more drought-tolerant. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage more blooms.
Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis) Details
Mature Height:
6-15 ft.
Mature Width:
4-8 ft.
Sunlight:
Full Sun
Growth Rate:
Slow
Harvest Time:
Early Spring
Botanical Name:
Camellia sinensis
Grows Well In Zones:
6-9 outdoors
Does Not Ship To:
AK, AZ, HI, OR
Growing Zones 6-9 Outdoors
(Hardy down to 0° F)
Watering Requirements
Newly planted shrubs need frequent waterings, often 2-3 times a week or daily in hot weather to establish strong roots. Established in-ground plants only need a deep soaking 1–2 times a week during dry spells. Containers always dry out faster and require daily checking, often needing a thorough watering almost every single day during the summer heat.
Sunlight Requirements
Thrives in partial shade, preferably morning sun and afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun in cooler northern climates, but they should be shielded from intense afternoon sun in warmer southern climates to protect their leaves.
Humidity Requirements
Prefers moderate to higher humidity conditions, thriving in coastal or naturally humid environments.
Pet-Friendly Plant?
No, use caution when placing this plant in homes with pets.
How and when should you fertilize camellias?
Fertilize camellias in spring after their blooming cycle finishes using an acid-forming fertilizer formulated for azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias. You can use either a synthetic fertilizer or organic amendments like composted pine bark or well-rotted compost. Apply fertilizer sparingly 2–3 times between early spring and mid-summer, avoiding late-autumn fertilizing, which can trigger delicate new growth that gets damaged by winter cold.
How do you prune camellias for healthy growth and maximum blooms?
Prune camellias in late spring immediately after their flowers fade before new flower buds set for the next season. Trim back dead or crossing branches, thin out inner growth to improve air circulation and light penetration, and shape the shrub lightly using clean bypass pruners.
All of our plants ship in premium packaging for zero damage on arrival. Here’s what you can expect in your box on arrival:
Your Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)
Fully rooted in a nursery pot with soil intact
Custom Protection System
Corner guards, soil stabilizer, and branch sleeves keep it secure
Pre-Watered & Ready
Each plant is watered 24 hours before it is shipped
Care Instructions Card
Includes expert-curated care tips to help your plant thrive far beyond the first 30 days.
Perfect For Gifting
No pricing or packing slips included with gifts! Just the plant and a note.
Additional Resources
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 1
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 2
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 3
- Patio Gardening 101: Growing in Containers
- Gardening 101: How to Dig the Perfect Hole
- Gardening 101: How to Determine Sunlight in Your Garden
- Gardening 101: How to Mulch Your Garden
- Gardening 101: How to Water Your Garden
Patio Gardening 101: Growing in Containers
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a lush garden but lack a sprawling backyard, don’t worry—patio gardening is the perfect solution! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials...
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Gardening 101: How to Dig the Perfect Hole
Gardening is a rewarding hobby, but to ensure your plants thrive, it's crucial to know the best time to plant and how to dig the perfect hole. In this guide,...
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Gardening 101: How to Determine Sunlight in Your Garden
Understanding the sunlight in your garden is key to creating a thriving outdoor space. In this article, we'll guide you through simple ways to determine sunlight in your garden, ensuring...
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Gardening 101: How to Mulch Your Garden
Mulching is one of the most beneficial practices for maintaining a healthy garden. In this guide, we'll explore how to properly mulch your garden and the different types of mulch...
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Gardening 101: How to Water Your Garden
Watering your garden correctly is essential for the health and growth of your plants. This guide will help you understand how to water your garden effectively and establish an ongoing...
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Why Choose The Sill?
Not all Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)s are created equal
Greenhouse Grown
Not warehouse-held. Hand-picked and cared for by our experts.
Outdoor Ready
Pre-conditioned for outdoor growth.
Hand-Selected
Inspected by experts. Only our best ship out.
30-Day Guarantee
Free replacements if not happy and healthy.