About

Leptospermum scoparium, the tea tree, is a rounded, evergreen shrub to 2.5 m � sometimes tree-like in its native New Zealand � producing a profusion of shallowly cup-shaped, white flowers in late spring and early summer. Bees that feed on the flowers produce the famous manuka honey. The small, aromatic, dark-green leaves are the source of an essential oil used medicinally for centuries by the M_ori people. A popular, rewarding and highly ornamental shrub for a sunny, mild garden or large container.

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
Soil typeLoam, Sand, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Wildlife gardens
Native toAustralia, New Zealand
FragranceFoliage

Care notes

CultivationOutdoors, grow in well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in a sheltered position in full sun. Protect from very cold weather when young
PruningSee pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed, or root semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)