Species

Leptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

2 other cultivars

shrub

Tea Tree

Leptospermum scoparium 'Outrageous'

The Story

Plant Bio

Leptospermum is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees native primarily to Australia, characterized by small, aromatic leaves and five-petaled flowers with prominent central stigmas. These plants thrive in well-drained, acidic to neutral soils in full sun.

'Outrageous' is a medium-sized, spreading hybrid cultivar distinguished by its weeping branches and large, deep red flowers that fade to pink around a green center. The aromatic, narrow leaves reach up to 15 millimeters long, providing a dense, fine-textured backdrop for the spring bloom.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces a profuse display of deep red flowers along weeping branches, contrasting with fine, aromatic green foliage.

Provides excellent windbreak and soil stabilization in coastal areas due to high salt tolerance.

Attracts native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insect pollinators to the garden.

SpeciesLeptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

78"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Low to Moderate

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

Australia (Parentage)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with well-drained, acidic to neutral loam or sandy soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but equal in depth, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it clear of the main stem.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly immediately after the spring flowering ends; cutting back into old, leafless wood prevents the plant from regenerating new shoots.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune the branch tips immediately after the spring flowering to maintain a dense, compact habit.
Water young plants consistently until they are fully established in the landscape.

Don't

Do not cut back into old, woody stems that lack green leaves, as they will not sprout new growth.
Do not apply heavy commercial fertilizers high in phosphorus, which can damage the root system.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

HedgeSpecimen PlantCoastal GardenCourtyard Garden

Companion Plants

Rosmarinus officinalis Lavandula dentata Grevillea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tea Tree questions

What zones can Tea Tree grow in?

Tea Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tea Tree deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tea Tree, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tea Tree bloom?

Tea Tree typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tea Tree need full sun?

Tea Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Tea Tree drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tea Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.