Teamaking and Tea Spilling: The Story of Yaupon Holly, Georgia’s Native Beverage Plant

Calling all tea lovers! Did you know Georgia has its own native caffeine-containing tea plant? In this workshop, participants will learn how yaupon holly almost became the tea of choice for America, before British tea moguls smeared the reputation of the plant. Instructor Ben Long will also share how his research at UGA will help bring yaupon back into Southern cups as a delicious and sustainable source of caffeine. During the workshop, participants will be invited to crush roasted yaupon leaves by hand, watch them be brewed, and finally share in a pot of traditional yaupon tea! Cups will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own mug to enjoy this unique beverage.