Leptospermum polygalifolium
Manuka tea tree
A bushy, evergreen shrub to 1.2m high, with small, needle-like leaves. In spring it produces an abundance of white flowers to 1cm across
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Leptospermum are aromatic evergreen shrubs or small trees with small, often silky leaves and 5-petalled flowers in late spring and summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Australia to Lord Howe Is.
How to grow
Cultivation
Outdoors, grow in well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in a warm and sheltered position; the foot of a south- or west-facing wall is ideal. Under glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full or bright, filtered light. When in growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. Plants can be moved outside in the summer months
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or root semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Wall side borders
Pruning
See pruning group 8
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)
Get involved
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