If you're wondering which tea suits your taste, mood, or health goal, understanding the different types of tea leaves is the key. From energizing greens to calming herbals, every leaf has a story to tell. The world of tea leaves is vast and flavorful. Whether you’re new to tea or deep into your steeping journey, learning about the types of tea leaves will elevate your experience. At Blooms & Leopard, we believe that tea is not just a beverage — it’s a ritual rooted in nature. Our hand-selected, loose leaf tea blends are crafted to reflect the wild elegance of earth’s flora and fauna. This guide explores all the major types of tea leaves — including their origin, processing methods, flavor profiles, and how to choose the right one for your lifestyle. What Are Tea Leaves? All true types of tea leaves come from the same plant: Camellia sinensis. What sets them apart is how they’re processed after harvest. Oxidation, drying, rolling, and aging all affect the final taste, color, aroma, and health benefits of the tea. The primary types of tea leaves include: Green tea leaves Black tea leaves White tea leaves Oolong tea leaves Pu-erh tea leaves Herbal tea leaves (botanical blends not from Camellia sinensis) Additionally, premium teas are often made from whole leaf tea, which retains the full structure of the leaf. Many are also hand-rolled tea leaves, offering better aroma and depth. Whether pan-fired, sun-dried, or fermented, the beauty lies in how each leaf captures a moment in nature. Green Tea Leaves – The Gentle Energizer Green tea leaves are among the most loved types of tea leaves globally. Known for their light processing and vibrant green color, these leaves are typically steamed or pan-fired soon after picking, which halts oxidation. Key characteristics of green tea leaves: Fresh, grassy, and mildly sweet flavor High antioxidant content, especially catechins Light caffeine content for gentle alertness Popular varieties include: Sencha: grassy and smooth Matcha: powdered form with a deep umami flavor Genmaicha: blended with roasted brown rice Loose leaf tea made from green tea leaves is perfect for mindful mornings and afternoon clarity. At Blooms & Leopard, our nature-infused green teas are part of a daily wellness ritual, crafted from whole leaf tea sourced with care. Black Tea Leaves – Bold and Classic Among all types of tea leaves, black tea leaves are the most oxidized. This full oxidation process turns the leaves dark brown to black and gives them their signature bold flavor and body. Features of black tea leaves: Strong, malty, and brisk flavor profile More caffeine than other teas Rich in theaflavins for heart and brain support Popular black teas include: Assam: malty and full-bodied Darjeeling: floral and musky Ceylon: citrusy and brisk Blooms & Leopard offers hand-rolled tea leaves in our black tea collection that embody resilience and strength, mirroring the boldness of wild terrains. Sip our signature Sea Lion’s Tea Time for a morning filled with clarity and calm strength. White Tea Leaves – Delicate Elegance White tea leaves are the least processed among the traditional types of tea leaves. Made from young buds and newly opened leaves, they are simply withered and dried, preserving their delicate flavors and nutrients. What defines white tea leaves: Subtle floral and honey-like aroma Light, sweet flavor with a smooth finish Contains antioxidants and is lower in caffeine Popular white teas: Silver Needle: light, silky, and luxurious White Peony: fuller-bodied with floral depth At Blooms & Leopard, we celebrate this gentle leaf with loose leaf tea that embodies nature’s subtle beauty. Our Feline Blossom blend captures the purity of white tea leaves, perfect for slow sips and introspection. Oolong Tea Leaves – The Flavor Chameleon Between green and black lies the beautifully complex world of oolong tea leaves. Semi-oxidized and often hand-rolled, they offer a vast range of flavors, from floral and creamy to roasted and nutty. Why tea lovers adore oolong tea leaves: Complex, evolving flavors that change with each infusion Moderate caffeine content for balanced energy Rich in polyphenols that support digestion and metabolism Well-known oolongs: Tie Guan Yin: floral and buttery Da Hong Pao: roasted and mineral-rich Among the most intriguing types of tea leaves, oolong tea leaves reflect the wild unpredictability of nature. Our oolong selections are bold yet refined, inspired by shifting landscapes and open skies. Pu-erh Tea Leaves – The Aged Wonder Unique among all types of tea leaves, pu-erh tea leaves undergo fermentation, transforming their character and deepening their flavor over time. Aged in carefully controlled environments, they offer a grounded and earthy experience. Highlights of pu-erh tea leaves: Earthy, woody flavor that deepens with age Microbial fermentation aids gut health Available as raw (sheng) or ripe (shou) varieties At Blooms & Leopard, we source fermented tea leaves with integrity, honoring age-old methods and earth’s wisdom. These teas are perfect for evening grounding rituals or post-meal digestion. Herbal Tea Leaves – Caffeine-Free and Flavorful Technically not true types of tea leaves, herbal tea leaves are made from dried flowers, fruits, herbs, and spices. They offer vibrant flavor and numerous health benefits without any caffeine. Benefits of herbal tea leaves: Excellent for relaxation, sleep, and immunity Wide variety of flavors: floral, fruity, minty, spicy Suitable for all ages Popular herbal teas: Chamomile: calming and floral Peppermint: cool and refreshing Hibiscus: tangy and antioxidant-rich Our herbal tea leaves blends at Blooms & Leopard are a symphony of botanicals that bring both comfort and wellness to your cup. Why Choose Loose Leaf or Whole Leaf Tea? When choosing between the types of tea leaves, the form matters as much as the type. At Blooms & Leopard, we use only loose leaf tea and whole leaf tea to ensure a rich, layered infusion. Why choose loose over bagged? Whole, unbroken leaves retain more nutrients and flavor Better aroma and multiple infusions Eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing No artificial flavors or bleached filter paper Our hand-rolled tea leaves are carefully selected to reflect the raw elegance of nature, a commitment that shines in every cup. How to Choose the Right Tea for You Each tea type serves a purpose. Choose your brew based on your mood, lifestyle, and taste: Need energy? Go for bold black tea leaves or balanced oolong tea leaves Want calm? Sip on white tea leaves or herbal tea leaves Craving clarity? Choose green tea leaves Supporting digestion? Try aged pu-erh tea leaves or fermented tea leaves Let your tea be your compass — an extension of how you feel and where you want to go. Discover Your Signature Brew with Blooms & Leopard Tea is a personal journey — of taste, of self, and of nature. At Blooms & Leopard, we blend types of tea leaves into experiences that inspire connection and conservation. Explore our signature blends: Berry Borealis – bright and fruity green tea leaves Sea Lion’s Tea Time – robust black tea leaves The Feline Blossom – dreamy herbal tea leaves Every cup supports wildlife conservation. Let your ritual reflect something wild and wonderful. Shop now at bloomsandleopard.com and use code BLOOMS10 for 10% off your first order. Conclusion The beauty of tea lies in its diversity. From the gentle clarity of green tea leaves to the profound depth of fermented tea leaves, the many types of tea leaves offer something for every season of the soul. Choosing tea should be intentional. With every sip, you're connecting to ancient traditions, sustainable practices, and the wild spirit of nature. At Blooms & Leopard, we invite you to discover your signature blend and celebrate every moment through mindful brewing. Frequently Asked Questions Q1. What are the main types of tea leaves? The main types of tea leaves include green, black, white, oolong, pu-erh, and herbal teas, each defined by its processing method and oxidation level. Q2. Are herbal tea leaves real tea? Technically, no. Herbal tea leaves are made from flowers, fruits, and herbs, not from the Camellia sinensis plant, so they are considered tisanes. Q3. What’s the difference between green and black tea leaves? Green tea leaves are minimally processed and unoxidized, while black tea leaves are fully oxidized, giving them a darker color and stronger flavor. Q4. Why choose loose leaf tea over tea bags? Loose leaf tea contains whole leaves that provide better flavor, multiple infusions, and greater health benefits compared to crushed tea bags. Q5. What are fermented tea leaves? Fermented tea leaves, like those in pu-erh, are aged over time through microbial processes, creating a deep, earthy flavor and added digestive benefits. Q6. Can I drink tea daily? Yes, most types of tea leaves can be enjoyed daily. Choose low-caffeine options like herbal or white tea for evening consumption. Q7. What’s special about hand-rolled tea leaves? Hand-rolled tea leaves preserve the leaf's natural oils, structure, and aroma, resulting in a higher-quality brew with richer flavor. Q8. How do I store loose leaf tea properly? Store loose leaf tea in airtight, opaque containers away from heat, light, and moisture to preserve its freshness and flavor.