The history of this white tea variety dates back to the mid-sixties of the previous century, when Da Bai Cha was included in the list of the best cultivars during the 1965 research symposium. These bushes took root in Yunnan, and over some time the warmer climate affected their leaves and the bud size. The name White Hair Silver Needle was given to the tea in Russia, and in its homeland it's called Da Bai Ja (Big white bud), Bai Dan (White loner) and others.

Imperial Silver Needle tea is produced from big spring buds, richly covered with silver fibers. They are subject to specific requirements: the buds for this tea should be big, downy and white – without a violet or green tint, crumpled or damaged buds are not used, as well as ones that are too thin – they produce savory tea. The treatment technology is similar to that of other white teas: buds are carefully withered and dried, without crushing, in order to avoid damage of the fragile fibers.