July 22, 2025

Kenyan Purple Tea 101

Caitlin Schiessl
Caitlin Schiessl
Senior Tea Trader, Purchase & Sales

When it comes to premium teas, Kenya has earned global recognition for its bold flavors and rich aromas. The country is now the world’s third-largest tea producer, known especially for its robust, full-bodied black teas grown in the highlands of East Africa. But among its traditional offerings, a new star is emerging in the specialty tea market: purple tea. With its striking color, purported health benefits, and growing appeal among health-conscious consumers, this distinctive tea is quickly becoming a standout in the specialty tea world. Learn how purple tea is grown, what makes it unique, and why it deserves a place in your lineup.

What is purple tea?

Purple tea comes from a naturally occurring mutation of the Camellia sinensis plant. The result? Striking purple leaves that are packed with anthocyanins. Anthocyanin is a flavonoid with antioxidant properties that give fruits like blueberries, grapes, and acai berries their purplish hues. Research suggests that anthocyanins may have a range of potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, enhancing brain function, and improving vascular health.

loose leaf kenyan purple whole leaf from royal tea new york

Grown at higher elevations with cool temperatures, Kenya provides the ideal environment for tea cultivation. The landscape’s altitude, volcanic soils, and consistent rainfall create a pest-resistant ecosystem, making pesticide-free cultivation the norm rather than the exception.

Royal Tea New York’s purple tea grows in Murang’a County near the Aberdare Mountains. While growers handpick the tea throughout the year, the most vibrant leaves emerge from March–May and September–October, when growing conditions are at their peak.

Why add purple tea to your offering?

Consumer demand is shifting toward healthier, more functional offerings. Kenyan purple tea presents a unique opportunity for retailers, cafés, and specialty tea brands. Its purported health benefits make it highly marketable to wellness-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to more traditional green and black teas. Plus, its smooth and mild flavor makes it approachable to many tea drinkers! By offering Kenyan purple tea, you can diversify your product range and offer something just as unique as it is beneficial.

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