Leptospermum Scoparium, New Zealand Tea Tree

Plant name: New Zealand Tea Tree

Scientific name: Leptospermum scoparium

Plant description:
New Zealand Tea Tree is a fine-textured evergreen shrub valued for its profuse spring bloom and dense branching habit. It develops a naturally upright to slightly spreading form with slender stems and small aromatic foliage. In favorable climates it can be grown as a specimen shrub, informal hedge, or large container plant. Its refined foliage and heavy flowering make it suitable for coastal and drought-tolerant landscapes.

Flower description:
Single or semi-double flowers appear in abundance along the stems, typically in shades of white, pink, or deep rose depending on the cultivar. Blooms measure about 1 inch across and cover the plant in spring to early summer. The flowers attract pollinators and are followed by small woody seed capsules that may persist on the plant.

Leaf description:
Leaves are small, narrow, and pointed with a firm texture. Foliage is typically medium to dark green and releases a light fragrance when crushed. The fine leaves give the plant a soft, airy appearance while maintaining year-round structure.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 8–10

Mature height and width:
Typically 6–10 feet tall and 4–8 feet wide, depending on cultivar and growing conditions. Can be maintained smaller with pruning.

Landscape uses:
Suitable for specimen plantings, informal hedges, coastal gardens, and large containers. Works well in rock gardens and mixed shrub borders where well-drained soil is available. Its compact foliage makes it effective in contemporary and Mediterranean-style designs.

Native range:
Native to New Zealand and southeastern Australia

Sun exposure:
Full sun is preferred for dense growth and maximum flower production. Light shade may be tolerated but can reduce bloom density.

Water requirements:
Moderate water during establishment. Once established, it tolerates short dry periods but performs best with consistent moisture in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Avoid heavy, poorly drained sites.

Pests and problems:
Generally low maintenance. May occasionally experience scale insects or spider mites. Root rot can occur in compacted or waterlogged soils. Good drainage and airflow are essential for long-term health.

Heat and sun tolerance:
Performs well in bright sun and tolerates warm conditions when soil drainage is adequate. Excessive humidity combined with poor drainage can reduce vigor.

Cold tolerance:
Hardy to USDA Zone 8. Light frost is usually tolerated, but extended freezing temperatures can cause branch dieback. Protection from harsh winter winds improves cold resilience.

Growing tips:
Plant in sharply drained soil and avoid overwatering, particularly during cool weather. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense branching. Avoid heavy fertilization, which can promote soft growth and reduce flowering. Apply mulch to moderate soil temperature while keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent moisture buildup at the base.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.