Broom tea-tree - Leptospermum scoparium (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Broom tea-tree

Also known as: Manuka, New zealand tea-tree

Broom tea-tree (Leptospermum scoparium) is an upright evergreen shrub that blooms with showy white, pink, or red flowers. The flowers eventually fall off and are replaced by seed capsules. Broom tea-tree wood is regularly used in tool handles and when burnt can imbue meat with a pleasant smoky flavor.

Scientific classification

Species

Broom tea-tree (Leptospermum scoparium)

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2 m to 15 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 3 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 mm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Broom tea-tree

Distribution of Broom tea-tree

Distribution Map

Broom tea-tree is native to Southeast Australia, New Zealand. Its original habitat was diverse, growing in lowland and alpine areas and rocky heathland alongside streams. Broom tea-tree has been introduced in Great Britain, where it's grown as an ornamental plant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Lowland to alpine areas, rocky and sandy heathland, by streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

This evergreen shrub is prized for its compact size, tolerance to pruning, and lovely spring and summer flowers. Because of broom tea-tree's versatility, it works wonderfully in a range of gardens, from rock to Mediterranean to coastal gardens. Its density also makes it great as a border or hedge shrub. Can be used as a backdrop for flowers of other seasons as well, such as lavender, poppies, or astelias.

Symbolism

Healing, Strong Health

Interesting Facts

Broom tea-tree, or Leptospermum scoparium, is sometimes called manuka. The honey made from the pollen of this tree is known as manuka honey which is touted to have healing properties. Parakeets ingest the bark and also use it for preening, which wards off parasites. The wood of broom tea-tree is also used for carving and for making tool handles.

Name Story

Broom tea-tree: The latin specific epithet scoparium means “like broom”. The name tea-tree is inspired by Captain Cook using the leaves to make a tea. Therefore, it is commonly called broom tea-tree.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Broom tea-tree, including the following common varieties :

Broom tea-tree 'Martini'Broom tea-tree 'Ruby Glow'Broom tea-tree 'Nichollsii'Broom tea-tree 'Red Ensign'Broom tea-tree 'Snow White'Broom tea-tree 'Red Damask'

Care Guide for Broom tea-tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from dry, rocky soils of Australia and New Zealand, broom tea-tree is drought-tolerant, requiring watering once every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen, it needs consistent soil moisture to maintain foliage, especially when grown outdoors to benefit from rainfall.

Fertilize: For broom tea-tree, use balanced nutrition fertilizers during active growth in spring/summer monthly, reducing to every 2-3 months in fall/winter. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root damage. Regular feeding enhances broom tea-tree's vigor and flowering potential while ensuring safety through glove use and avoiding foliage contact.

Pruning: Broom tea-tree thrives with regular pruning, particularly in late spring post-flowering, to enhance shape and density. Remove dead branches and thin overcrowded areas for better airflow. This practice encourages vigorous growth and improves the overall aesthetic and health of broom tea-tree.

Propagation: Propagate broom tea-tree using cuttings in spring or summer, a moderate challenge for beginners. Success is indicated by healthy root growth. Utilize well-draining soil and prevent over-watering to achieve the best results.

Repotting: Repot broom tea-tree every 2-3 years in early spring for optimal growth. Use a container slightly larger than the current one to avoid overpotting. Ensure proper drainage and slightly increase watering post-repotting. Broom tea-tree is resilient and requires minimal fuss afterward.

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Images of Broom tea-tree

Distribution of Broom tea-tree

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Broom tea-tree

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