The key difference is in the leaf processing after harvest. This product is an unfermented or green Ivan tea, meaning the narrow-leaved fireweed leaves are simply dried to preserve their natural state. In contrast, the darker varieties undergo an oxidation process called fermentation, similar to how black tea is made, which develops deeper, often roasted or malty flavours.
This processing choice has a direct impact on your cup. Unfermented leaves retain a fresher, more meadow-like herbal character. You can expect a lighter, greener aroma and a more straightforward plant taste compared to the richer, more complex profile of fermented Ivan tea. The mouthfeel tends to be rounded but less heavy, shaped by the plant's natural polyphenols and tannins. People often choose the green version when they want a gentler herbal alternative to classic tea, suitable for a quiet morning or an evening cup, while the fermented style might appeal more to those seeking a bolder, more robust infusion reminiscent of traditional black tea.