Tea Types Explained

All Tea Comes from One Plant

It might surprise you to learn that white, green, oolong, black, and pu-erh teas all come from the same plant: Camellia sinensis. What makes each type unique is how the leaves are processed after harvesting. Herbal teas are the exception — they're made from a blend of herbs, flowers, fruits, and spices.

White Tea

White tea is the least processed of all true teas. The young leaves and buds are simply picked and dried, preserving a naturally delicate, slightly sweet flavor. It brews to a pale golden color and has a gentle, subtle taste that's perfect for those who prefer something light and refined.

Green Tea

After harvesting, green tea leaves are quickly heated — either steamed or pan-fired — to stop oxidation. This keeps the leaves green and preserves a fresh, grassy, or vegetal flavor. Green teas range from the mellow sweetness of a Japanese Sencha to the rich umami depth of a Gyokuro.

Oolong Tea

Oolong sits beautifully between green and black tea. The leaves are partially oxidized, which creates a wide spectrum of flavors — from light and floral to dark and toasty. If you enjoy complexity and nuance in your cup, oolong is well worth exploring.

Black Tea

Black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a bold, robust flavor and a deep amber or reddish-brown color. It's the most widely consumed tea in the Western world and the base for popular blends like English Breakfast and Earl Grey. Black tea holds up well to milk and sweeteners.

Pu-erh Tea

Pu-erh is a fermented tea with a rich, earthy character that deepens with age. It's often pressed into cakes or bricks and can be aged for years, much like fine wine. If you're curious about bold, complex flavors, pu-erh is a fascinating category to explore.

Herbal Tea (Tisanes)

Herbal teas — technically called tisanes — are caffeine-free infusions made from dried herbs, flowers, fruits, roots, and spices. Popular options include chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, and rooibos. They're wonderfully diverse and a great choice for any time of day, especially evenings.

Which Type Is Right for You?

There's no single answer — it depends on your taste preferences, when you're drinking, and how much caffeine you want. The best approach is to try a little of everything. Browse our curated selection at Solstice Tea Traders and discover the types that speak to you.