Comparative Analysis of Physiological, Growth, and Biochemical Traits in Tea Cultivars for Shaded Environments

This study collected and propagated genetic resources for a native Korean tea plant to select cultivars suitable for shaded environments. The Cv_24 cultivar was compared with the Japanese Yabukida cultivar (Cv_01) and the Korean Chamnok cultivar (Cv_10). The results showed that Cv_24 exhibited a higher chlorophyll content (SPAD value), superior photosynthetic efficiency (O-J-I-P curve and Fv/Fm ratio), and the highest theanine content (275.6 mg/100 g), which contributes to umami taste. Additionally, electronic tongue analysis indicated that Cv_24 had the highest umami sensor value (NMS). These findings suggest Cv_24 possesses optimal physiological and biochemical traits for producing high-quality powdered green tea (matcha). Because Cv_24 demonstrates characteristics distinct from existing cultivars, it is considered a promising variety for shaded cultivation in the Korean tea industry.