Hyson facts for kids

Hyson tea, also known as Lucky Dragon Tea, is a special kind of green tea. It comes from the Anhui province in China. This tea is made from young tea leaves. These leaves are carefully rolled into a long, twisted shape. When you brew them, they slowly unroll in the hot water.

The name "Hyson" might come from an old Chinese name, "熙春茶" (pronounced hi-tshun-tê). This name means "flourishing spring tea." Some people also say it was named after an English tea seller named Phillip Hyson. Hyson tea is sorted into different groups. These groups are called Mi Si, Cheng Si, and Fu Si.

While some Hyson tea is considered regular quality, a type called Young Hyson is very special. Young Hyson tea leaves are picked much earlier. They are harvested "before the rains" begin. This early picking gives the tea a strong, full flavor and a golden color.

Young Hyson tea is further divided into different types:

• Chun Mee: This type has a small, hard, twisted leaf.
• Foong Mee: This one has a long, large, curly leaf.
• Saw Mee: This leaf is small and twisted, but not hard.
• Siftings: These are smaller pieces of tea leaves.

Sometimes, Young Hyson is also simply called First, Second, or Third Young Hyson. In Chinese, Young Hyson is known as Yu Chin Ch'a. It has its own categories like Mi Yu, O Yu, I Yu, Ya Yu, and Si Yu.

How to Brew Hyson Tea

Brewing Hyson tea is easy! You will need about 1 teaspoon of tea for every 6 ounces (which is about three-quarters of a regular cup) of water. Make sure the water is hot, but not boiling. Let the tea steep, or soak, for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Hyson tea has a unique taste. People describe it as light, warm, and smooth. It can also taste earthy, sunny, or like springtime. You can enjoy Hyson tea hot or even iced. Most people do not add milk or sugar. This is because milk and sugar can change the tea's natural flavor. However, if you have cold Hyson tea, you can add a slice of lime or lemon for a fresh twist!