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LEPTOSPERMUM
Commonly known as Manuka, New Zealand tea tree
All flower APR-JUL. They can be grown successfully outdoors in most of the country providing they are planted in a hot, dry and very well sheltered location. If these conditions are not available, then they should be grown in pots or containers in an ericaceous compost and brought into the greenhouse for the winter
Small, bright flowers making up for their size by their profuse flowering.
Early Australian settlers steeped leaves of some varieties for drinking. L. scoparium is the source of Manuka honey.
Genus of about 85 species of evergreen shrubs and trees occurring in rainforest and semi-arid areas mainly in Australia but also from southeastern asia to New Zealand.
Plant Details
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Floweringlocal_floristJanlocal_floristFeblocal_floristMarlocal_floristAprlocal_floristMaylocal_floristJunlocal_floristJullocal_floristAuglocal_floristSeplocal_floristOctlocal_floristNovlocal_floristDec
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Good to know
Wildlife plant - insects -
Pests & Diseases
None -
Place of origin
New Zealand -
Resistant to honey fungusThese plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.
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EvergreenSmall leaves to 2cm (¾in) long.
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Red
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SingleRow of petals round conspicuous stamens - no more than 8 petals
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Frost hardy (down to -5)
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Entire
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Elliptic
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Lanceolate
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Height
2-3m (6½-10ft) -
Spread
2m (6½ft)
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Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter
Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F)Under glass use loam-based compost (JI No.3) in full or bright filtered light -
Will grow outside in milder locations
This could include plants which would survive happily in a greenhouse or conservatory if not in a mild location. If you have a sheltered spot in your garden then it may do well here.
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Scented foliage
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Spring Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Bee friendly
Planting Tips and Care Advice
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Garden Location/Conditions
Australian / New Zealand
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Pruning group
Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
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Soil Conditions
Fertile well drained soilModerately fertile
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Sun Requirements
Against a wallSouth- or west-facing
Full sun
Protect from cold, dry winds
Partial shade
Leptospermum - Growing Guide
