Guest article: The world of tea plants: Insights from herbalist Max Schmidt

Camellia sinensis - The mother of all teas

Camellia sinensis is the basis for all traditional teas such as green tea, black tea, white tea, oolong and pu-erh. The different types of tea are produced depending on the growing region and processing.

Main growing areas:

China: Famous for green tea and white tea with delicate, floral notes.

India: The high altitudes of Darjeeling and Assam produce strong black teas.

Sri Lanka: Ceylon teas are known for their balanced flavour.

Growing conditions: Tea plants thrive in tropical and subtropical climate zones. They prefer well-drained soil and moist conditions.

Peculiarity: The processing determines the type of tea: green tea is steamed, black tea is oxidised and white tea remains almost untreated.

Rooibos - the red tea from South Africa

Rooibos, also known as "red tea", comes from the plant Aspalathus linearis, which only grows in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa.

Flavour: Mild, slightly sweet and caffeine-free - ideal for any time of day.

Growing conditions: Rooibos needs sandy soils and a dry, hot climate.

Special feature: Rooibos is rich in antioxidants and is often enjoyed as a caffeine-free alternative to traditional tea.

Yerba mate - the energy plant of South America

Yerba mate is made from the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a type of holly. This tea is a national drink in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay

Flavour: Earthy and tart, with a strong caffeine kick.

Growing conditions: Mate plants grow in warm, humid regions with nutrient-rich soil.

Special feature: Mate is traditionally served in a calabash and drunk with a bombilla (metal straw), which encourages socialising.

Herbal teas - the diversity of nature

Herbal teas such as peppermint, camomile or hibiscus do not come from the tea plant Camellia sinensis, but from a variety of other plants.

Growing conditions: Each plant has its own requirements. Peppermint prefers moist soil, while hibiscus thrives in warm, tropical climates.

Special feature: Herbal teas are caffeine-free and offer a wide range of health benefits - from calming to energising.

Tea plants of the future - climate change and innovation

The cultivation of tea plants is facing new challenges. Climate change is altering growing conditions and researchers are experimenting with resistant tea varieties that can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Innovative approaches:

• Mixed crops that protect the soil and promote biodiversity
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• New tea varieties such as "Purple Tea" from Kenya, which is rich in anthocyanins and has a purple colour.

Conclusion: A fascinating world of tea plants

From the lush green plantations of China to the dry soils of South Africa - tea plants show just how diverse and adaptable nature is. Each plant tells a story about its origin, growing conditions and the people who cultivate it.