No one is absolutely certain how this class derived its name, but my favorite theory is the one that they are so called because the slips were packed in tea crates of the trading ships for transportation back to Europe. It does not infer that they smell like tea leaves or brewed tea - although there may be a few who swear that they do. Two of these. Along with the Chinas, Teas bloom consistently in our region. They tend to be a larger bush - anywhere from 3' to 7' in our region.
Some varieties have a more spreading habit while others tend to be more upright.
It is wise to do a little research on which type habit you need in your garden so that adequate space is allowed. This entire class is extremely fragrant and colors are pastel ranging from creamy white to yellow to pink. They are best used as pillaring, climbing, espaliering, or as specimen plantings in the landscape. I didn't love. Originated on the Isle de Bourbon off the coast of Madagascar.