Tea is more than just a drink, it’s a tradition, a ritual, and for many Singaporeans, a daily comfort. Whether you love the strong aroma of black tea in your morning teh tarik or the floral fragrance of jasmine tea at dinner, every brew begins with one essential ingredient: the tea leaf.

From centuries-old Chinese varieties to modern herbal infusions, the world of tea leaves is as diverse as it is delicious. Here are 10 types of tea leaves every Singaporean should try at least once, each with its own taste, origin, and health benefits.

1. Green Tea – The Everyday Antioxidant

Originating from China and Japan, green tea leaves are lightly processed, preserving their natural green hue and fresh, grassy flavour. Popular types include Sencha, Longjing (Dragon Well), and Matcha.

• Taste: Fresh, light, slightly bitter
• Benefits: Boosts metabolism, rich in antioxidants, improves focus

Green tea is perfect for those seeking a healthy, refreshing daily drink, whether served hot or cold.

2. Black Tea – Bold, Rich, and Energising

Black tea leaves are fully oxidised, giving them a dark colour and robust flavour. They form the base of many local favourites like teh tarik and teh-C. Famous varieties include Assam, Ceylon, and Darjeeling.

• Taste: Malty, bold, sometimes fruity
• Benefits: Increases alertness, supports heart health, aids digestion

If you need a strong morning kick, black tea is your go-to brew.

3. Oolong Tea – The Best of Both Worlds

Halfway between green and black tea, oolong tea leaves are partially oxidised, offering a beautiful balance of flavour. Chinese Tie Guan Yin and Taiwanese High Mountain Oolong are popular picks.

• Taste: Floral, smooth, slightly roasted
• Benefits: Aids weight loss, supports metabolism, improves gut health

Oolong is ideal for tea drinkers who crave complexity and depth in every sip.

4. White Tea – The Delicate Luxury

Known as the least processed tea, white tea leaves are simply picked and dried. This gives them a subtle, clean flavour and high antioxidant content. Varieties like Silver Needle and White Peony are prized by tea connoisseurs.

• Taste: Light, floral, slightly sweet
• Benefits: Promotes youthful skin, strengthens immunity, protects cells from aging

White tea is perfect for peaceful mornings or quiet afternoon breaks.

5. Pu-erh Tea – The Aged Classic

A signature of Yunnan, China, pu-erh tea leaves are fermented and aged over time, some for decades! This process gives the tea a deep, earthy flavour and smooth finish.

• Taste: Earthy, woody, mellow
• Benefits: Aids digestion, lowers cholesterol, supports gut health

Pu-erh is often enjoyed after rich meals, making it a great post-dinner tea.

6. Herbal Tea – Nature’s Healing Cup

Technically not from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), herbal tea leaves come from flowers, herbs, and fruits. Popular options include chamomile, peppermint, lemongrass, and hibiscus.

• Taste: Varies: floral, minty, or fruity
• Benefits: Depends on the blend; many promote relaxation, better sleep, or digestion

Herbal teas are caffeine-free, making them perfect for winding down at night.

7. Jasmine Tea – Fragrant and Soothing

A beloved favourite in many Chinese restaurants, jasmine tea is typically made by infusing green tea leaves with jasmine blossoms. The result? A calming, aromatic cup that pairs beautifully with dim sum.

• Taste: Floral, smooth, lightly sweet
• Benefits: Reduces stress, boosts immunity, supports heart health

If you enjoy gentle aromas, jasmine tea offers a perfect balance of fragrance and flavour.

8. Rooibos Tea – The Red Wonder

Originating from South Africa, rooibos (red bush) tea leaves are naturally caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants.

• Taste: Sweet, nutty, slightly caramel-like
• Benefits: Improves skin health, supports digestion, reduces inflammation

Rooibos is a great alternative for those avoiding caffeine but still craving a rich, satisfying cup.

9. Matcha – The Zen of Tea

Unlike other teas, matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves. You consume the entire leaf, which means a higher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants.

• Taste: Smooth, vegetal, slightly umami
• Benefits: Enhances focus, detoxifies the body, provides sustained energy

Whisked into lattes, smoothies, or traditional tea ceremonies, matcha is both ancient and trend-worthy.

10. Chai Tea – The Spiced Comfort

Originally from India, chai tea leaves are blended with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. In Singapore, it’s often enjoyed as masala chai or a comforting milk tea.

• Taste: Spicy, creamy, aromatic
• Benefits: Improves circulation, boosts digestion, warms the body

If you love full-bodied teas with character, chai is the perfect ending to your tea journey.

From the humble black tea in your kopitiam cup to exotic aged pu-erh, each tea leaf tells a story of culture, craftsmanship, and comfort. Trying different tea leaves isn’t just about taste; it’s about exploring traditions and discovering what fits your lifestyle best.

So the next time you’re at a café or browsing a tea shop, skip your usual order and try something new. You might just find your next favourite brew!

Get your tea fix at these tea specialists

1. Tea Therapy Singapore

An online boutique specialising in handcrafted herbal, floral and fruit tea blends (e.g., “Flora Tea Bombs”), with caffeine-free infusions aimed at wellness and lifestyle.

2. TWG Tea Boutique

Luxury tea brand from Singapore specialising in whole-leaf teas sourced globally. Offers over 800 different single-estate harvests and exclusive blends.

3. Pek Sin Choon Pte Ltd

Legacy Chinese tea merchant founded in 1925, located in Chinatown. Known for premium Chinese teas and traditional roasting/blending methods.

4. Wang San Yang Tea Merchant

Heritage tea merchant in Chinatown offering a wide range of Chinese teas and teaware.

5. Tea Chapter

A cultural tea house and retail shop specialising in Chinese tea appreciation, loose leaf tea and tea-ware.

6. Camellia Tea Bar

Boutique tea retailer & bar offering high-end teas, tea experiences and accessories. Good for readers looking for niche/modern tea-leaf shops.