About
Leptospermum rupestre, the prostrate tea tree, is a prostrate or spreading evergreen shrub with small, aromatic, ovate leaves that turn bronze or purple in winter. White flowers 10 mm across are produced in summer. An excellent and ornamental ground-cover tea tree for a sunny, well-drained bank or rock garden.
About the genus
Leptospermum, the tea trees, are aromatic evergreen shrubs or small trees with small, often silky leaves and five-petalled, white, pink or red flowers in late spring and summer. Popular and ornamental plants for mild, sunny gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
Native toAustralia (Tasmania)
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in a sheltered, warm, sunny position
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)