CAMELLIA TEA PLANT - The Camellia sinensis is the evergreen plant grown for the production of tea leaves. This flowering plant’s glossy leather like leaves can be picked and used to brew your own pot of tea. This hardy plant is well suited for growing in the UK. Naturally grown above the cloud line in the Himalayas it can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. PLANT GIFT - This grow your own tea plant, comes planted in a 15cm terracotta plant pot topped with moss making it an excellent garden gift for tea enthusiasts, plant and garden lovers at Christmas. Perfect present all year round, ideal gift when stuck for ideas for mum, dad or loved ones. Also a great gardener gift idea for those with an allotment. GROWING & CARE - Tea plants prefer growing in acidic moist welling draining soil in partial shade. They should be protected from strong morning sun. Keep the soil moist, especially in dry weather. Water potted plants with rainwater to maintain the compost's acidic pH. If growing in a colder area, keep your tea plant in a cold greenhouse or again a south west facing wall and protected with polythene sheeting when snow is forecast. MAKING YOUR OWN TEA - Pluck two leaves and a bud from fresh growth. Don’t harvest more than once in the first year of growth. Steam the harvested leaves for 1-2 minutes until soft and olive green in colour. Rinse the leaves under cold water to halt oxidation. Roll the leaves up, and dry them in the oven at 110°C, or just under gas mark 1 for 10-12 minutes. They will become dark green and feel crispy in texture. Put leaves in a tea pot, cover them in boiled, not boiling water and leave to steep until it reaches the desired strength. CARBETH PLANTS - We are a Scottish based company with over 20 years experience in horticulture. With a large variety of plants for the garden, indoors and also gift wrapped for special occasions. We pride ourselves on prompt delivery as well as our quality and affordable plants.