May Shoot Tea: Its History, Characteristics, and Significance

The tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is the source of different types of tea. White tea, green tea, and black tea, although produced from the same plant, differ in taste, price, color, and other characteristics. So, where do these differences come from?

Why is White Tea More Valuable?

White tea is made by hand-picking the tiny, white, silvery shoots that emerge at the very tip of the tea plant. This is a labor-intensive process, hence the term "2.5 leaf tea": two fresh leaves and one tiny shoot. White tea undergoes the least processing among all teas.

Why is green tea green tea?

Does green tea, when brewed, turn out to be a vibrant green like a kiwi-flavored instant drink? No, actually, green tea isn't always a completely green color. Because it hasn't undergone the oxidation process, it remains green when brewed. The color of green tea can sometimes have unexpected shades.

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Is '2.5 Leaf' Black Tea Possible?

Yes, it is possible, but it is quite difficult in a country like Turkey, where 245 million cups of tea are consumed daily. A large workforce is required to produce 2.5-leaf black tea. Harvesting the top leaves with tea shears is a more common method in black tea production.

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What is the correct harvest time for tea?

Tea is harvested three times a year in Türkiye. The 'May Flush' harvest, which takes place in May, is the most valuable of the tea. This first harvest, taken from tea plants nourished by melting snow, has a unique taste and quality.

Is the only difference between green tea and black tea oxidation?

Both yes and no. If 2.5 leaves are being harvested, the difference is greater than just oxidation. The producer's preference is also very important at this point. This is a process where cost and quality factors come together.

Is 2.5 green tea leaves, in a sense, white tea?

Yes, a portion of a 2.5-leaf green tea plant actually has the potential to become white tea. In other words, leaves harvested from the same tea plant can turn into white tea if they are not processed.

Just in case it bothers you

Lazika only harvests May Shoot teas and does not blend them with other harvests. Tea shears are used for black tea, while green teas are hand-picked. For us, freshness is the most important element, and therefore, each of our teas is natural and free of additives.