White, green, oolong, and black tea all come from the same plant, differing by how much the leaves are oxidized. This comparison shows the result.
| Tea | Oxidation | Caffeine | Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|
| White | Minimal | Low | Delicate, subtly sweet |
| Green | Little to none | Low to medium | Grassy, fresh, vegetal |
| Oolong | Partial | Medium | Floral, complex |
| Black | Full | High | Robust, malty |
| Herbal | None (not true tea) | None | Varies by blend |
One plant, many teas. White, green, oolong, and black are all Camellia sinensis. Herbal teas are infusions of other plants and contain no true tea or caffeine.
FAQ
Which tea type has the most caffeine? As a general rule, black tea tends to have the most caffeine, followed by oolong, green, and white tea, with herbal tea containing none. Actual caffeine varies a lot by leaf grade and steep time, so this is a loose guide.
See the Tea Steeping Time Chart and the Tea Brewing Guide.