Species

Leptospermum polygalifoliumTantoon, Jelly Bush, Tea Tree

1 other cultivar

‘Copper Glow’Copper Glow Tea Tree, Tea Tree 'Copper Glow'

shrub

Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree

Leptospermum polygalifolium 'Cardwell'

The Story

Plant Bio

Leptospermum polygalifolium is an evergreen Australian shrub or small tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family. The species adapts to a wide range of climates from tropical to cool temperate zones, producing aromatic foliage and nectar-rich flowers that support native insect populations.

'Cardwell' is a fast-growing cultivar distinguished by its gracefully weeping, cascading habit and drooping branches that reach up to two metres in height. From late winter to early summer, the branches are densely blanketed in profuse white flowers, creating a snow-covered appearance against the pink-tinged new growth.

Uses & Benefits:

Features a graceful weeping habit with cascading branches that are densely covered in white flowers, complemented by pink-tinged new growth.

Provides excellent soil stabilisation on banks and tolerates temporary wet conditions once established.

Attracts native bees, beneficial insects, and insectivorous birds to the garden.

SpeciesLeptospermum polygalifoliumTantoon, Jelly Bush, Tea Tree

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

79 inches

Width

79 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High to low

Lifespan

Moderate

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late winter – Early summer

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of equal depth.
Position the plant in the hole, backfill with native soil, and firm down gently.
Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture until established.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly immediately after the summer flowering flush; cutting back deep into old, leafless wood often prevents the plant from shooting.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a dense, compact habit.
Apply a low-phosphorus native slow-release fertiliser in spring.
Ensure excellent soil drainage to prevent root rot issues.

Don't

Do not prune heavily into old, bare wood as it may fail to regenerate.
Do not over-water established plants growing in heavy clay soils.
Do not use standard high-phosphorus fertilisers around the root zone.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Weeping feature plantScreening or informal hedgingInundation-tolerant bank plantingPollinator and habitat gardens

Companion Plants

Callistemon viminalis Melaleuca thymifolia Anigozanthos flavidus Correa reflexa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree questions

What zones can Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree grow in?

Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree bloom?

Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree typically blooms in late winter through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree need full sun?

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

Is Cardwell Tea Tree, Tea Tree drought tolerant?

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