Nutrition

Camellia sinensis has chloroplasts that undergo photosynthesis, so tea plants achieve their energy through the sun’s chemical energy. In addition to photosynthesis, Camellia sinensis uses a centralized root system in order to retrieve water and nutrients from the soil. This root system is enhanced through a mutualistic relationship with Glomermycota, where the surface area of the root enlarges. Once the water is uprooted from the ground, the plant’s vascular system moves the water up through the plant. One type of the vascular tissues is xylem, which transports the water and minerals throughout the plant. The phloem transports organic material like glucose to all areas of the plant, including the roots and Glomermycota fungi. Like most plants, tea plants store their food as starch. Starch is not soluble in water and glucose is, so starch is a better fit for storage than glucose. Furthermore, starch is not osmotic, so starch can be stored without disrupting water movement within the plant. The plants adaptations positively affect the nutrition in-take, making C. sinensis more fit within its environment.

Nutrition is vital, but so are Camellia sinensis' Interactions.