The Unique Landscape of Tea Farming in the United States
Tea farming is a rare and specialized endeavor in the United States, with only a handful of tea farms scattered across the country. Among them, there is just one full-fledged tea plantation located in Charleston, South Carolina. This scarcity is largely due to the specific climatic conditions required for the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the source of all true teas. These plants thrive in environments with high humidity, ample rainfall, and are typically found in hardiness zones 7 through 10. Much of the U.S. does not meet these requirements, but certain regions in the Southeast do — making them ideal locations for tea cultivation.
One such location is Amite City in Louisiana, where the Fleur de Lis Tea Company stands out as the only tea farm of its kind in the state. Since 2017, this unique operation has successfully grown Camellia sinensis, taking advantage of the region’s warm and humid climate. Visitors can explore the farm’s fields and the historic tea house, enjoy a guided tour, and partake in a tea tasting while surrounded by the natural beauty of pine trees.
A Serendipitous Beginning
The story of Fleur de Lis Tea Company began more by chance than by design. Owner David Barron had no prior knowledge of tea cultivation when he first encountered the idea. “I didn’t even know tea plants grew here,” he admitted to Country Roads Magazine. The initial venture started with about 1,000 tea plants provided by a friend, and Barron was fortunate to have the space — a pine plantation — to grow them. The presence of pine trees turned out to be a significant factor in the success of the farm. Their roots contribute to the soil’s acidity, and the shade they provide helps maintain the right growing conditions for the tea plants.
These subtle environmental factors play a crucial role in determining the flavor and aroma of the tea. According to a reviewer on Reddit, the black tea from Fleur de Lis has a “woody taste, with a tanginess that sort of makes me think of stone fruit.” This unique profile is a testament to the careful balance achieved by the farm.
Exploring the Fleur de Lis Experience
Fleur de Lis Tea Company is located approximately an hour and 10 minutes from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, nestled in Louisiana’s Northshore region. Known for its tranquil marshlands and exceptional seafood, this area offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. Tours of the farm can be booked online for select dates, usually once a month. These tours include visits to both the tea fields and the processing house, where guests can sample the farm’s fresh teas.
The tea house itself is a standout feature, built with hand-selected wooden finishes and situated beneath the shade of the surrounding pines. It also serves as a venue for special events, adding to the charm of the experience.
Accommodations and More
For those looking to extend their stay, the farm offers a cozy cabin called the Lodge. Available on Airbnb, this property is a guest favorite, featuring a pool table, smart TV, washer and dryer, a complete kitchen, and enough beds to accommodate up to five people. The rustic setting includes a gazebo, fish pond, and walking trails through the pine forest, providing a serene environment for relaxation.
After a stay at the Lodge, guests can explore nearby Amite City, known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Mike’s Catfish Inn is a top recommendation, boasting a 4.2-star rating on TripAdvisor. For those interested in a broader adventure, Covington, a charming city with an artsy vibe, is just a 45-minute drive away.
