Tea Camellia sinensis - probably native to China, cultivation and use of tea originated in Asia. Portugese introduced tea to Europe in 16th century, tea was important trade item in Europe by 18th century. Colonial Americans were fond of tea and were angered by tea tax imposed by British which resulted in the Boston Tea Party. Tea time was initiated by Duchess of Bedford in early 20th century. Cultivation - has not been grown successfully in New World except Argentina, most tea is grown in Asia.
Plants are small evergreen trees which require good rainfall and cool temperatures.
Trees are pruned to force bushlike growth. Picking is by hand, youngest leaves and terminal bud only are picked, plants can be picked once a week. Tea bags were initially used as samples. Green tea - leaves are shredded, heated, dried and packaged, used locally. A local plant, Ilex vomitoria , is used to make cassina tea.