Leptospermum scoparium is a shrub-like plant that remains evergreen because of its little, needle-like and prickly leaves. These leaves produce an amazing aroma when they are crushed. At the beginning of the summer, this plant develops attractive one or two blossoms in red, white or pink. In addition to this, this flowering plant also attracts various pollinators such as bees. This tree is also known as the New Zealand tree or manuka. Significantly, because of its use in making honey manuka is famous all over the world. It also produces nectar that is collected by the bees. New Zealand tree is very simple to grow and gas the ability to rest various diseases and pests.
Scientific Name:
The scientific name of the New Zealand plant is Leptospermum scoparium.
Common Names: There are various other interesting names for this plant such as Manuka myrtle, mauka, broom tea tree, New Zealand tea tree and tea tree.
Plant Kind: It is an evergreen shrub.
Average size: The average size of this plant range from 6-10 feet tall and is same in the width.
Sunlight: This plant needs full sunlight
Soil Type: New Zealand tree needs well-drained, rich and normal-moisture soil.
Soil pH: The soil should be slightly acidic.
Growing Time: The ideal season to grow this plant range from June to July
Flower Color: There is a combination of colours available in this flower such as red, white and pink.
Hardiness Zones: Its zone is 9 to 10
Origin: Leptospermum scoparium was first time introduced in New Zealand and then in Australia.
How to Care for New Zealand Tea Tree:
The average height of Manuka myrtle is approximately 6-10 feet in width and tall. But its size can become high or small based on the growing cultivator and its provided conditions. It is perfect to plant this tree at the beginning of the spring in such an area where this plant can spread easily. So to grow this tree well take some peat moss and compost mix it and add it to the soil. In this way, the soil will become well-drained and nutrients rich.
Light: It is good to plant New Zealand trees in such an area that can receive good sunlight directly and unfiltered. In addition to this, it can also survive in partial shade. But it is typically better to plant it in a sunny spot.
Soil: The soil should be slightly acidic, fertile and perfectly drained for the best result growing results of tea tree. It can grow in a bad condition soil also but not like the healthy one. So you should put organic material in the soil for the better development of Leptospermum scoparium.
Water: It is very important to facilitate broom tea trees with proper water regularly. But be careful do not to make the soil wet and soggy. There should be moderate moisture in the soil that let this flowering plant grow perfectly.
Fertilizer:There is often no need to fertilize the New Zealand tea tree. But in case if the soil becomes infertile then you can put a layer of mulch or compost on it in the spring every 1-3 years.
Pruning:This tree doesn’t need a lot of pruning except removing its damaged, diseased or dead branches, leaves or stems. After pruning the tree sterilize all the tools that you have used.
Common Pests and Diseases:
Interestingly, this plant doesn’t face any serious pest problems or diseases. But it struggles due to caterpillar, scales and borers. So to prevent your plant from all these issues it is very important to provide it ideal growing conditions.
Edible Uses: The leaves of Leptospermum scoparium are delicious as used as the substitute for a refreshing tea.
Use & Benefits:There are various medical uses of Broom tea tree such as
- It is anti-inflammatory.
- This plant is widely used as antifungal, antioxidant, analgesic etc.
- The oil that is made by using its leaves and bark also plays various medical roles.
Conclusion:So in a nutshell, it is noted that Leptospermum scoparium is one of the most beautiful plants in the world. Additionally, it is not only attractive but beneficial in many ways. It can cure various diseases and can be used as a tea substitute. The nectar that it produces is extracted by the bees. New Zealand tree tea can make any garden or landscape pleasant and stunning. Hopefully, this article will give you all the essential information regarding Leptospermum scoparium.