1 named cultivar

‘Ruby Glow’New Zealand Tea Tree, Ruby Glow Manuka, Tea Tree

shrub

Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree

The Story

Plant Bio

Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as manuka or tea-tree, is an erect evergreen shrub or small tree native to southeastern Australia and New Zealand, typically found in wet heathlands and open forests. The foliage consists of small, lanceolate leaves with sharp, pungent tips, while the five-petalled white flowers appear singly or in clusters along the branches in spring and early summer.

This species is distinguished by younger stems featuring a narrow flange near the petiole base and bark that sheds in long, stringy strips. The wild form produces nectar that attracts native bees and insects, which in turn support insectivorous birds.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces a profusion of white flowers against fine, dark green foliage, making it an excellent specimen or hedging plant.

Highly tolerant of coastal exposure, salt spray, and seasonally wet soils, serving well for erosion control.

Provides a rich source of nectar for native bees, beneficial insects, and insectivorous birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

80 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Moderate

Native To

Australia, New Zealand

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun or light partial shade with acidic, low-nutrient soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same depth as the container level.
Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture until the root system is established.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stem to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Restrict pruning to the green, leafy growth tips immediately after the spring flowering phase; cutting back into old, bare wood will kill the branch as this species lacks dormant epicormic buds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tip-prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain a dense, bushy habit.
Ensure adequate air circulation around the plant to minimise fungal disease risks.
Grow in acidic, nutrient-poor soils for optimal growth and performance.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, leafless brown wood as the plant will not regenerate from bare timber.
Do not apply heavy or high-phosphorus fertilisers, which can damage the root system.
Do not plant in highly alkaline soils where micronutrient deficiencies may occur.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

HedgeCoastal GardenWindbreakScreeningRevegetation

Companion Plants

Callistemon Melaleuca Correa Westringia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree questions

What zones can Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree grow in?

Manuka, Tea-tree, 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.

When does Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree bloom?

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

Does Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree need full sun?

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

Is Manuka, Tea-tree, New Zealand Tea-tree drought tolerant?

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