Rose tea is technically a tisane, not a true tea, as it's made from dried rose petals and rosehips rather than the Camellia sinensis plant.
What Makes a "True" Tea?
"True" teas are derived exclusively from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. These include:
- Black Tea: Fully oxidized.
- Green Tea: Unoxidized.
- White Tea: Minimally processed.
- Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized.
- Pu-erh Tea: Fermented tea.
Rose Tea: A Floral Tisane
Since rose tea is made from rose petals and hips, not Camellia sinensis leaves, it falls into the category of herbal teas or tisanes. Tisanes are infusions made from herbs, spices, flowers, fruits, or other plant materials. Rose tea is known for being caffeine-free and offering a delicately floral flavor. Many enjoy it in sleep blends.
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | True Tea (e.g., Black, Green) | Rose Tea (Tisane) |
|---|---|---|
| Source Plant | Camellia sinensis | Rose petals and rosehips |
| Caffeine Content | Typically contains caffeine | Caffeine-free |
| Category | Tea | Herbal Tea / Tisane |
Therefore, while often referred to as "tea," rose tea is technically a caffeine-free tisane.
