Cultivars and Plucking
There are several jasmine cultivars planted in mainland China. In general, there are three main categories referring to the structure of flower petals.
1) Single-Petal Jasmine ( Dan-ban Mo-li)
In the early stage (before year 1963), this is the main cultivar planted for the production of jasmine tea.
The flowers blossom at an earlier hour (6-7 p.m.) as compared to the Double-petal jasmine (at 8-9 p.m.).This cultivar gives a fresh note of bouquet and with a refreshing taste to the jasmine tea.
However, the yield is much lower (1400-1750 kg/acre, 2800kg/acre at maximum), as compared to Double-petal jasmine (3500-5600 kg/acre, 10500kg/acre at maximum).
Besides, this cultivar is susceptible to plant disease and is not able to bear the cold weather and water logging condition during the rainy season.
These factors are unfavorable to the overall performance although it gives a good fragrance. Continue reading