Tea types explained: brewing temperatures and times
Black, green, oolong and white tea all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. What makes them different is processing, mainly how much the leaves are oxidised after picking.
Herbal teas, more accurately called tisanes, are not true teas at all. They are infusions of other plants such as peppermint, chamomile or rooibos. This guide covers the main types and how to brew each one.
From the same plant: oxidation is the key
White tea is the least processed, simply withered and dried. Green tea is heated early to stop oxidation, keeping it fresh and grassy. Oolong is partially oxidised, sitting between green and black. Black tea is fully oxidised, which gives it its darker colour and stronger flavour.
Because oxidation changes the leaf chemistry, each type suits a different water temperature. Delicate teas need cooler water, while robust black teas can take near-boiling water.
Brewing temperatures and times
As a general guide: green tea around 70 to 80°C for one to three minutes; white tea around 75 to 85°C for two to five minutes; oolong around 85 to 95°C for three to five minutes; and black tea around 95 to 100°C for three to five minutes.
Herbal infusions are usually brewed with fully boiling water for five to seven minutes or longer. If green tea tastes bitter, your water is probably too hot or it steeped too long, so cool the water and shorten the brew.
Loose leaf vs tea bags
Loose leaf tea often uses larger, whole leaves that have room to unfurl and release flavour, which many drinkers prefer. Standard tea bags frequently contain smaller broken leaves or fannings, which brew quickly but can taste flatter.
Some conventional tea bags contain plastic in the sealing material. If that matters to you, look for plastic-free or full-leaf bags, which several UK brands now offer.
Caffeine and storage
All true teas contain caffeine, with the amount depending on the tea and how it is brewed rather than a simple colour rule. Most herbal tisanes such as peppermint and chamomile are naturally caffeine free.
Store tea in an airtight, opaque container away from heat, light, moisture and strong smells. Tea readily absorbs odours, so keep it away from spices and coffee.
Frequently asked questions
Is green tea brewed with boiling water?
No. Green tea is best brewed cooler, around 70 to 80°C. Boiling water can make it bitter. Let a kettle rest after boiling, or use a variable-temperature kettle.
Are black, green and white tea from different plants?
No. They all come from Camellia sinensis. The differences come from how the leaves are processed and oxidised.
Is herbal tea real tea?
Not in the strict sense. Herbal teas are infusions of other plants and are more accurately called tisanes. Most are caffeine free.