About

A neat, upright, evergreen shrub that Attains about 2.5m high, with narrow-elliptical, dark green leaves to 3.5 cm long. Saucer-shaped, 5-petalled brilliant red flowers to 2.5cm across, with a prominent central ring of stamens, appear in late spring.

About the genus

Leptospermum are aromatic evergreen shrubs or small trees with small, often silky leaves and 5-petalled flowers in late spring and summer

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toSE Australia

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Shelter from cold, drying winds. In colder areas grow under glass, in bright filtered light, in containers of peat-free, loam-based potting compost, water sparingly in winter
PruningPruning group 8; may need restrictive pruning for conservatory or greenhouse cultivation
PropagationPropagate by seed or from semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)