
White Peony (Bai Mu Dan) 白牡丹
Soft, fruity, floral, fuller body
Water Temp
180°F (82°C)
Infusions
4-6
Harvest
Spring, one bud with one or two young leaves. Slightly later harvest than Silver Needle.
Entry Price
$10-20 / 100g (standard grade)
Flavor Profile
Taste & Aroma
Brewing Guide
How to Brew It
Water
180°F (82°C)
Vessel
Porcelain gaiwan or glass
Gongfu Time
45-60 seconds
Western Time
3-4 minutes
Ratio
2-3g per 200ml
Infusions
4-6
Buying Guide
How to Buy White Peony (Bai Mu Dan) Without Getting Scammed
The Chinese tea market is vast and unregulated. Here's exactly what to look for — and what to run from.
Entry Level
$10-20 / 100g (standard grade)
Premium / Collector
$30-60 / 100g (Fuding origin, high proportion of buds)
Quality Check
Mix of silvery buds and green-brown leaves. Leaves should appear as if dancing when brewed. Dry fragrance should be fresh and mildly sweet, avoid smoky or stale notes.
Common Scams
Lower-quality production using summer or autumn leaves lacks the fruity sweetness. Machine-processed versions lose the leaf integrity and visual appeal.
Search keywords that find the real thing
For the general principles behind every one of these checks — harvest dates, origin specificity, red flags — read our complete buying guide.
History
Where It Comes From
Bai Mu Dan means White Peony, the brewed leaves resemble peony petals floating in water. Second only to Silver Needle in white tea hierarchy but offers more flavor complexity at a friendlier price. A great everyday white tea.
Ideal For
Those who find Silver Needle too subtle. Great value daily white tea. Pairs beautifully with light foods.
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