Photo of Leptospermum laevigatum flower, foliage by Stephen Bain

Photo by Stephen Bain

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Leptospermum laevigatum

Also Known As

  • Australian Tea Tree

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

  • H: 20'-30'
  • W: 20'-30'

planting zones

  • 8b-12

More Options

Leptospermum laevigatum plant details

Leptospermum laevigatum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with blue and green foliage. In spring and summer white flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something seaside / salt tolerant and wind tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Leptospermum laevigatum

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: myrtaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 20 FT - 30 FT - wide, 20 FT - 30 FT - tall
Flowers: white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: sculptural

GROWING CONDITIONS for Leptospermum laevigatum

USDA Zones: 8b - 12
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer, seaside / salt and wind
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A large shrub or small tree to 30' high that often develops a large, gnarled trunk with spreading, twisted branches and flaky bark that peels in thin, papery strips. White flowers appear in spring against narrow, muted gray-green foliage. The tea tree adapts to most soil types, including alkaline soils, and serves as a useful screen, hedge, or windbreak in salt laden air. Also good for erosion control. Australia, Tasmania.

Gardening facts about Leptospermum laevigatum plant

How to Grow Leptospermum laevigatum

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly sun
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Water Needs

    • dry in summer
  • Soil Needs

    • clay
    • adaptable
    • average
    • lean
    • well-drained
    • rocky
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • seaside / salt tolerant
    • wind tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
    • blue
  • Flower Color

    • white
  • Wildlife

    • deer resistant
  • Flower Season

    • spring
    • summer
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen

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