Tea

Camellia sinensis is a small evergreen shrub or tree native to East Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. It is cultivated globally in tropical and subtropical regions. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, tea plants serve as an understory layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for beneficial insects and birds. They contribute to soil health through leaf litter and organic matter, enhancing soil structure and fertility. Tea plants are traditionally intercropped with nitrogen-fixing species like Acacia or Albizia to improve soil nitrogen levels. Historically, tea has been a significant cultural and economic crop, with its leaves used for various types of tea, each with unique processing methods. The plant is valued for its ability to thrive without synthetic inputs, relying on organic matter and natural pest control.

Tea plants prefer well-drained, acidic soils with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. Soil should be enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or leaf litter helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as comfrey and yarrow can enhance soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging. Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and increases leaf yield. Harvest young leaves every 7-15 da

The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Camellia sinensis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.

Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> — Global Biodiversity Information Facility