Green tea and matcha leaves are from the same plant species. Both have long been consumed as beverages. Green tea is often in crushed leaves form (similar to other black teas) and is typically prepared by seeping the leaves in hot water. The leaves are then discarded and the tea consumed as it is. Matcha, on the other hand, comes in a finely ground, delicate fine powder form. Unlike green tea, matcha powder is mixed in water and consumed as such. It can be sweetened or made into a latte by adding milk or cream. For this matcha pound cake, you need to use the matcha powder and not the green tea leaves. Also, make sure the match powder is of culinary grade. The powder is sifted together with flour to break any lumps and then mixed into the cake batter.