Abstract: ‘Huangjincha 16’is a newly selected extra-early sprouting elite clonal tea cultivar（Camellia sinensis）derived from the Baojing Huangjincha population through systematic selection and breeding. This cultivar exhibits a shrub growth habit,medium-sized leaves,and distinct agronomic traits,including yellow-green buds and leaves with moderate to dense sprouting density. Chemical analysis of steamed one-bud and two-leaf samples harvested in spring revealed that the water extract content reached 37.7%,tea polyphenol content was 20.8%,amino acid content was 4.5%,and caffeine content was 3.9%. The curled green tea processed from this cultivar is characterized by tight and uniform strips with a green appearance,a fresh and lasting aroma,a bright yellow-green infusion resembling amber,a fresh and mellow taste with a smooth mouthfeel,and infused leaves that are yellow-green,uniform,tender,and bright with high bud and leaf integrity.‘Huangjincha 16’demonstrates strong adaptability,high yield,and excellent quality,making it suitable for cultivation during both winter and spring seasons in the tea-growing regions of Hunan Province,China,with broad potential for promotion and application.

Key words: Camellia sinensis, extra-early sprouting, green tea, adaptability, cultivar