Species

Leptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

2 other cultivars

shrub

New Zealand Tea Tree

Leptospermum scoparium 'Ruby Glow'

The Story

Plant Bio

Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as manuka or New Zealand tea tree, is a dense, upright evergreen shrub native to New Zealand and southeast Australia. It features tiny, aromatic, needle-like dark green leaves and a fine-textured, twiggy branching structure that thrives in coastal conditions.

'Ruby Glow' is distinguished by its profusion of double, button-like flowers in a deep ruby-red shade that smother the stems from late spring into early summer. The dark green foliage often carries a subtle bronze tint on new growth, providing a rich backdrop for the intense floral display.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces a profuse display of deep ruby-red double flowers against dense, dark green, aromatic foliage.

Highly tolerant of salt-laden coastal winds, making it an excellent windbreak or screen for maritime exposures.

Attracts and supports native bees and beneficial insects with its open, accessible flowers.

SpeciesLeptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96"

Width

72"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

New Zealand and southeast Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with sandy, loamy, or well-drained acidic soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but equal in depth, ensuring the plant sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent waterlogging.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, resilient root system.
Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it clear of the main stem.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly immediately after flowering, taking care never to cut back into old, leafless wood; this species lacks dormant buds on old wood and will fail to reshoot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in highly draining, acidic to neutral soil to prevent root rot.
Prune lightly every year immediately after the flowering cycle finishes.
Provide occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells once established.
Ensure excellent air circulation to minimize the risk of powdery mildew.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, bare brown wood, as the plant will not regenerate.
Do not allow the roots to sit in heavy, waterlogged, or poorly drained clay soils.
Do not apply standard high-phosphorus fertilizers, which can cause severe root burn.
Do not overwater once the root system is fully established.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen plantingCoastal gardensHedges and screensMediterranean gardensWindbreaks

Companion Plants

Ceanothus Rosmarinus officinalis Lavandula angustifolia Cistus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

New Zealand Tea Tree questions

What zones can New Zealand Tea Tree grow in?

New Zealand 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.

Is New Zealand Tea Tree deer resistant?

Yes — New Zealand Tea Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does New Zealand Tea Tree bloom?

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

Does New Zealand Tea Tree need full sun?

New Zealand Tea Tree does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is New Zealand Tea Tree drought tolerant?

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