The Pu'er Tea originates from various tea mountains along the Lancang River. It is produced both from wild and cultivated tea trees. The regions where Pu'er tea grows are characterized by pristine waters, misty mountains, a warm and humid climate with ample sunshine. These areas are sparsely populated and far removed from urban pollution. The favorable growing conditions for Pu'er tea mainly relate to the soil, climate, and sunlight.
The soils in the Pu'er tea production areas are mostly derived from the weathering of rocks such as granite, purple rock, and sandstone. They consist of red, yellow, and brick-red soils with a pH value of 4-6, which is slightly acidic. These soils have high organic matter content, good drainage and aeration, and a deep layer, making them ideal for tea tree growth.
The climate in the Pu'er tea production areas is subtropical monsoon with an average annual temperature of 17-22 degrees Celsius, small annual temperature differences, large daily temperature differences, and an annual rainfall of 1200-1800 millimeters. There is a distinct rainy season, warmth and humidity, and the region is located in mountainous and hilly areas with an average altitude of 1200-2000 meters. Mists often shroud the area during early morning and late evening, maintaining a relative humidity around 85%. The absence of frost periods further enhances the excellent climatic conditions that greatly benefit the growth of large-leaf tea trees.
The Pu'er tea production areas are situated in low latitudes with relatively high altitudes, receiving a significant amount of solar radiation, resulting in favorable lighting conditions. This is particularly beneficial for the formation of polyphenols in tea leaves. The presence of morning and evening mists further enhances the growth of tea leaves.
The superior growing environment allows for dense forests of wild tea trees in the Pu'er tea region. With minimal human interference, the ecosystem remains largely intact, with countless tea trees hundreds or even thousands of years old.
Moreover, large-leaf tea trees can sprout throughout all four seasons, producing thick and tender tea buds, providing a solid material foundation for Pu'er tea production.
The Pu'er tea production areas are primarily concentrated in the mid-lower reaches of the Lancang River, including the Xishuangbanna, Simao, Lincang, and Baoshan tea regions.
Xishuangbanna tea region is located in southwestern Yunnan Province, bordering Vietnam and Laos to the east and Myanmar to the west. It is the largest Pu'er tea production area in Yunnan Province. Within the Xishuangbanna tea region, there are the Wuliang and Ailao Mountains and the Lancang and Lixian Rivers, known for their clear waters and beautiful scenery. The region includes Jinghong City and Menghai County, both well-known traditional Pu'er tea production areas.
The history of tea tree cultivation in this region dates back over 1700 years, and numerous ancient tea trees, some hundreds or even thousands of years old, still thrive today.