Laoshu

Laoshu (老树) literally means "old tree" and is a term used in Chinese tea culture to refer to old tea trees. These trees are significant in the production of high-quality Pu-erh tea and other varieties, as they often provide more complex and deeper flavor profiles compared to younger plants.

Definition and Terminology

The exact definition of what constitutes a Laoshu varies by region and among tea producers. Generally, Laoshu refers to tea trees that are between 60 and 100 years old. These trees have deeper root systems, allowing them to absorb nutrients from deeper layers of soil, which positively affects the quality and taste of the tea.

Several terms are used to categorize old tea trees:

Gushu (古树): Literally "ancient tree," referring to tea trees over 100 years old. Some of these trees can be several centuries old.
Laoshu (老树): "Old tree," typically for trees between 60 and 100 years old.
Dashu (大树): "Big tree," used in regions like Jing Mai to describe tall trees, regardless of age.
Qiaomu (乔木): Sometimes used to describe semi-wild or wild-grown tea trees.
Yesheng (野生): "Wild," referring to wild-growing tea trees that have not been cultivated.

Significance in Tea Culture

Laoshu tea trees are an important part of traditional tea culture in regions like Yunnan, where Pu-erh tea is produced. Tea from these trees is highly sought after due to its limited availability and unique flavor profile. The old trees contribute to biodiversity and are often part of ecosystems that have existed for generations.

Differences from Younger Tea Plants

Compared to younger tea bushes (often referred to as Taidi 台地), which are cultivated in plantations, Laoshu tea trees offer:

Complex flavors: Due to their age and deep root systems, the leaves develop richer taste nuances.
Natural growth: Often grown without the use of pesticides or fertilizers, resulting in a purer product.
Traditional processing: Harvesting and processing are frequently done using traditional methods, emphasizing cultural significance.

Challenges

Identification: There is often disagreement about which trees truly qualify as Laoshu or Gushu. Without official certification, claims about the age of trees can vary.
Conservation: Old tea trees are sensitive to environmental changes and require protection from over-harvesting and deforestation.
Market value: Due to their rarity, teas from Laoshu trees are more expensive, which can lead to counterfeiting or misleading claims.

References

Zhang, W. (2015). The Ancient Tea Trees of Yunnan. Kunming: Yunnan People's Publishing House.
Li, X. (2018). Traditional Tea Culture and Biodiversity. Beijing: China Agriculture Press.
Chen, Y. (2020). "The Significance of Old Tea Trees in the Modern Tea Industry." Journal of Tea Science, 40(3), 150-158.