Plant types

Plant styles

Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

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Leptospermum scoparium

Also Known As

New Zealand Tea Tree

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 6'-10'
W: 6'-10'

planting zones

9a-10b

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Leptospermum scoparium plant details

Leptospermum scoparium is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring pink and white flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Leptospermum scoparium

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: myrtaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 FT - 10 FT - wide, 6 FT - 10 FT - tall
Flowers: pink and white blooms in spring
Uses: fragrant

GROWING CONDITIONS for Leptospermum scoparium

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: low

Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Though it is affectionately known as Manuka rather than teatree, the pungent heather-like foliage of this charming medium shrub was used as a tea substitute; many small white flowers in spring. S/M

By: Forestfarm

The broom tea tree is among the most beautiful of the teas, a evergreen shrub to small tree, typically growing to 6-10 ft tall x 4-6 ft wide in the garden, with deep green, slightly prickly, burgundy tinted leaves and clouds of white flowers in spring. Prefers bright conditions, sun to part shade, and at least a little extra summer moisture in dry climates. These plants, from seed, wild collected on the New Zealand's South Island, are expected to be frost hardy in USDA zone 8.

By: Cistus Nursery

Once the source of tea for weary sea-goers, "New Zealand Tea Tree" has a fine textured habit and makes a show of white flowers in late spring. Colored forms exist, but they are not as hardy as this form that has lived through all of Seattle's coldest winters. Hardy to at least 5 – 10 °F. DS.