Pu-erh tea origin & history – origin, regions & traditions
Pu-Erh tea originates from the southern Chinese province of Yunnan , one of the oldest tea-growing regions in the world.
Its history stretches back more than 1,700 years – from ancient trade routes to modern tea masterpieces.
Origin of Pu-erh tea
The name “Pu-Erh” comes from the city of the same name in Yunnan province.
Tea was already being cultivated and processed as a trade commodity here during the Tang Dynasty (7th-10th centuries) .
Back then, tea was pressed into compact flatbreads, bricks, or balls ,
to make it more durable and transportable on long trade routes.
These tea routes – known as the “Tea Horse Roads” (茶马古道, Cha Ma Gu Dao) –
connected Yunnan with Tibet, Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
Learn more about the storage and maturation of Pu-erh tea here.
and why it is directly related to his origins.
The most important growing regions in Yunnan
Yunnan is located in southwest China, characterized by a subtropical climate, fog and nutrient-rich soils – ideal conditions for Camellia sinensis var. assamica , the large-leaf tea variety of Pu-erh.
Well-known Pu-erh regions:
- Xishuangbanna: southernmost region of Yunnan, home to many wild tea trees
- Lincang: known for strong, mineral-rich Sheng teas
- Puer (Simao): Center of trade and namesake of Pu-erh
- Baoshan: western region, fruity-sweet aroma
In these regions, tea often grows at altitudes above 1,500 meters –
which makes it particularly aromatic and complex.
You can find more information about the flavor profiles at
Pu-Erh types & varieties .
The ancient tea trees of Yunnan
One of the most fascinating features of Pu-Erh is its origin from tea trees that are sometimes centuries old .
Some specimens, such as those in the Jingmai Shan region, are over 800 years old.
These old trees – called “Gu Shu Cha” (古树茶) – provide leaves with high minerality, complex taste and natural microflora that positively influences ripening and fermentation.
Tradition & Culture of Pu-Erh Tea
Pu-erh tea is not only of great importance in terms of taste, but also culturally.
In many villages in Yunnan, the tea ceremony is part of daily life and a symbol of hospitality.
The production and transmission of knowledge are deeply rooted in regional identity.
You can find out more about the ritual aspect of tea at
Preparation & Tea Ceremony .
Conclusion – Tradition and quality from Yunnan
The origin of Pu-Erh tea is inextricably linked to its quality.
From Yunnan's centuries-old tea trees to the artisanal processing methods
Every cup of Pu-Erh reflects a piece of history.
Whether you prefer Sheng or Shou – knowing their origin will help you,
to better understand the differences in taste and quality.