Product Overview
Zhulan Maofeng, also known as Pearl Orchid Flower Tea, is a refined variety of scented tea crafted by combining premium Huangshan Maofeng green tea with the delicate fragrance of zhulan (Jasminum sambac var. pubescens). This tea harmoniously integrates the freshness of green tea with the elegant, lingering orchid-like aroma of zhulan blossoms. With its refreshing taste and unique charm, it stands out among the many types of Chinese flower teas.
The origin of Zhulan Maofeng can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty in Shexian, Anhui Province, where Huangshan Maofeng and other local teas were scented with zhulan flowers. By the Qing Dynasty, records in Shexian Gazetteer and Huajing described the cultivation of zhulan and the meticulous craft of tea scenting, which greatly enhanced tea quality. Today, production regions include Anhui, Fujian, Zhejiang, and Jiangxi, each contributing its own nuance to the tea’s character.
Zhulan flowers, small and pure white, bloom from midsummer to early autumn. Unlike the intense fragrance of jasmine, zhulan exudes a gentler, refined, orchid-like aroma—long-lasting, elegant, and refreshing. When paired with Huangshan Maofeng, one of China’s Ten Famous Teas known for its slender buds, silvery down, and mellow sweetness, the result is a tea of remarkable balance between floral fragrance and tea essence.
The production process is key to the tea’s distinction. Fresh, mature zhulan blossoms are harvested in the afternoon when the flowers fully open and the aroma peaks. They are carefully layered with freshly made Huangshan Maofeng tea, allowing the leaves to naturally absorb the fragrance. After sufficient scenting, the spent flowers are removed to avoid excess moisture or off-flavors. Premium batches undergo multiple scenting rounds, followed by gentle low-temperature baking to lock in the fragrance and preserve the tea’s freshness.
When brewed, Zhulan Maofeng offers a bright yellow-green liquor, with an elegant floral aroma and a sweet, mellow taste. The fragrance is pronounced in the first infusion, perfectly balanced with the tea’s freshness in subsequent steeps, and lingers softly with each cup. The infused leaves unfold into tender green buds, adding to the tea’s visual appeal.
Beyond its refined taste, Zhulan Maofeng also carries notable health benefits. Rich in amino acids and polyphenols, it quenches thirst, aids digestion, and refreshes the mind. The unique floral compounds of zhulan provide a mild therapeutic effect—stimulating alertness, soothing fatigue, and even showing benefits in traditional use for weight management, rheumatic pain, and stress relief. Recent research highlights the active compounds in zhulan-scented teas, confirming their role in promoting overall wellness. Zhulan Maofeng is not only a fragrant and elegant tea but also a cultural gem, embodying centuries of craftsmanship and the harmony of nature’s finest offerings.
Brewing Guide: A clear glass or porcelain gaiwan is recommended. Use 3–5 grams of tea per session. 80–85°C (176–185°F) to preserve the delicate floral fragrance.
Steps:
Rinse the tea quickly with hot water to awaken the leaves.
Add hot water gently along the wall of the cup.
Steep for 30–60 seconds for the first infusion.
Enjoy and re-infuse 4–5 times, adjusting steeping time as desired.