Pauper's-tea - Sageretia thea (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Pauper's-tea

Also known as: Mock Buckthorn, Bird Plum, Chinese Sweetplum, Chinese Tea

Pauper's-tea (Sageretia thea) is an evergreen shrub that's widely cultivated for its leaves in India and Southern China. The leaves of pauper's-tea are brewed as a tea. This species grows in mountain forests, thickets, and hills.

Scientific classification

Species

Pauper's-tea (Sageretia thea)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

1.2 m to 3 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Pauper's-tea

Care Guide for Pauper's-tea

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, pauper's-tea demonstrates exceptional drought tolerance. It requires watering once every 1-2 weeks, favoring infrequent but deep sessions that reflect its natural habitat's sparse rainfall. Ideal for xeriscapes, pauper's-tea's root system thrives with minimal moisture.

Fertilize: Pauper's-tea thrives with monthly applications of half-strength high-nitrogen water-soluble fertilizer in spring and summer, transitioning to every other month in autumn and none in winter. Proper fertilization enhances vigor and leaf color while avoiding over-fertilization, which can cause leaf burn.

Pruning: Pauper's-tea has small, glossy leaves and dense growth. Prune in early to late winter during dormancy, removing dead or weak branches and thinning overcrowded areas for air circulation. This enhances new growth, flowering, and ensures a vigorous, healthy appearance while preventing disease.

Propagation: Pauper's-tea thrives with cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots containing at least two nodes. Use a well-draining soil mix, keeping moisture consistent. Place in indirect sunlight to avoid scorching. Patience is essential, as root establishment may take several weeks.

Repotting: Repot pauper's-tea every 2-3 years in early spring, using a larger container for root growth. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Use a well-draining soil mix to support pauper's-tea's health and beauty during this delicate transition.

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