The Tea Family Tree: Types of tea made simple
All true teas come from the same plant : Camellia sinensis. The difference lies in how the leaves are processed and oxidized after picking. From the freshest green teas to the richest black teas, each step in the craft transforms flavor, color, and aroma.
| Tea Type | Fermentation Level | Flavor Profile | Liquor Color | Main Origins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Tea | Non-fermented (0%) | Fresh, Grassy, Light | Pale green-yellow | China, Japan |
| White Tea | Slightly fermented (~10%) | Delicate, Sweet, Floral | Pale yellow | China (Fujian) |
| Yellow Tea | Light fermentation (~20%) | Mellow, Smooth | Yellow-gold | China |
| Oolong Tea | Semi-fermented (30–70%) | Complex, Fruity, Floral | Golden to amber | China, Taiwan |
| Black Tea | Fully fermented (80–100%) | Bold, Malty, Rich | Deep amber to red | China, India, Sri Lanka |
| Dark Tea (Pu-erh) | Post-fermented (aged) | Earthy, Woody, Smooth | Dark reddish-brown | China (Yunnan) |
