Species

Leptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

2 other cultivars

shrub

New Zealand Tea Tree

Leptospermum scoparium 'Burgundy Queen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as New Zealand tea tree, is an upright, evergreen shrub native to New Zealand and southeastern Australia. It features small, needle-like aromatic leaves and produces a profusion of five-petaled flowers along its slender, spreading branches.

'Burgundy Queen' is distinguished by its showy, double flowers in deep crimson to rich burgundy-red. Its dark green foliage flushes with a rich burgundy or purple hue during cold winter weather.

Uses & Benefits:

Features showy, double crimson-red flowers and dark green foliage that turns rich burgundy in winter.

Offers excellent windbreak and soil stabilization properties in coastal or sloped landscapes.

Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial pollinating insects.

SpeciesLeptospermum scopariumNew Zealand Tea Tree

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

118"

Width

98"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

10–20 years

Native To

New Zealand and Southeastern 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 very light shade with highly well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but equal in depth, ensuring the crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent rot.
Backfill with native soil, press down gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stem, to retain moisture while the plant establishes.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly immediately after flowering finishes to maintain a dense habit; cutting back into old, leafless wood prevents re-sprouting and permanently damages the branch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water young plants regularly until their root systems are fully established.
Prune lightly immediately after the spring flowering cycle completes.
Plant in raised beds or mounds if your garden has heavy or slow-draining soil.

Don't

Do not cut back hard into old, bare wood, as the plant will not regenerate from old timber.
Avoid overwatering or planting in poorly drained areas where water collects.
Do not apply heavy doses of fertilizer, especially those high in phosphorus.

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 PlantHedges and ScreensCoastal GardensMediterranean Gardens

Companion Plants

Ceanothus Rosmarinus officinalis Cistus Lavandula

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?

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

When does New Zealand Tea Tree bloom?

New Zealand 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 New Zealand Tea Tree need full sun?

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

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.