CAMELLIA SINENSIS (TEA PLANTS)

Camellia sinensis is the species of plant whose leaf buds and leaves are used to manufacture tea. The plants produce green leaf, which goes to the factory to produce made tea, either as Green or Black tea.

Sri Lanka is renowned for its high quality and as the third biggest tea producing country globally, has a production share of 9% in the international sphere, and one of the world's leading exporters with a share of around 19% of the global demand. The total extent of land under cultivation has been assessed at approximately 187,309 hectares.

Ceylon tea is grown in three areas according their locations. They are grouped as Upcountry, Mid country and Low country based on the geography of the land on which it is grown. Today, Ceylon Tea is known as one of the best in the world.

Ideal Climatic Conditions:

• Tea trees grow mainly in tropical and sub-tropical climates. Some varieties can tolerate marine climates and are cultivated as far north as Cornwall in UK and Seattle in the United States.

• In addition to ideal climatic conditions, they require at least 50 inches of rainfall a year and prefer acidic soils. Many high-quality plants are cultivated at elevations of up to 5,000 feet (1,500 meters). The plants grow more slowly at these heights but acquire a better flavor.

BELOW: THE LARGEST TEA BUSH IN CEYLON IN THE YEAR 1963 WAS AT PITARATMALIE ESTATE IN THE HAPUTALE DISTRICT OF UVA PROVINCE

(Courtesy: Ian Gardner)