Commercial tea is the prepared leaf or leaf-bud of an evergreen,
indigenous to Asia, which in its wild state attains the general
proportions of the American peach-tree. Botanically, it is known as
_Camellis Thea_ or _Thea Chinensis_. Under cultivation, it is kept
pruned to within three to five feet high. The constant pruning
encourages the growth of new branches and new leaves. The value of the
Tea is in the young tender leaf.
[Illustration: Testing Tea]
Teas are divided into two groups, which differ chiefly in the method of
curing. A tea-plant may produce a leaf which commercially may be either
black or green, depending on the treatment.
Green tea is prepared by steaming the fresh green leaf and then drying
it. In this way the bright color is preserved.
Black Tea is the result of oxidization or fermentation, caused by
exposing the leaves to the sun, which turns them black.
The best Teas are made from the young leaves, the different varieties
being graded according to their age and position on the shoot.
Tea is produced in large quantities in China, Japan, India and the
islands of Ceylon, Java and Formosa.
There are about 200 varieties of Teas, and, perhaps, ten times as many
flavors. Tea ranges in value from a few cents per pound for stems up to
$10.00 for the very finest leaf.
The Government inspects all teas entering the United States, and those
below a certain standard are not allowed to enter the country.
Tea drinking in the United States is increasing, but the consumption is
still far behind that of many other countries.
[Illustration: Banquet Extra Fancy Blended Tea]
The average American housewife has not given to the brewing of tea the
same careful consideration she gives to the preparation of other
beverages. Good Tea brewed right is a delicious beverage, but certain
rules must be observed.
Complete directions for the perfect brewing of Tea appear on each
package of Banquet Brand. Under this brand all the desirable varieties
are packed as well as a remarkable blend.
Our publication, “Tea, Its Early History, and the Three Colonial
American Tea Parties,” will be mailed free upon request.