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Leptospermum laevigatum

Australian Tea Tree

Plant photo of: Leptospermum laevigatum
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Description

This tree can be grown as solitary specimen to show exfoliating or smooth, gray-brown trunks that twist and curve with age. It is also a shrub and is useful as a windbreak, screen, or clipped hedge. This plant does best in full or part sun with well draining, sandy or loam soil. It does well in coastal areas. Deer usually leave it alone but birds and bees love this plant. It can easily reach 30' tall and wide, with a weeping habit and low canopy. During spring, the tree is covered with attractive white flowers followed by brown fruit in fall. Leaves are evergreen, oval, blue green or silver or gray green. Considered invasive in Hawaii. Seeds are spread via wind, vehicles, soil movement, water and dumped garden waste. Potentially invasive in California. Do not plant if you live adjacent to a channel.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Height Range

6-12', 12-25'

Width Range

n/a

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Grey Green

Bark Color

Brown, Grey

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Invasive

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Seascape

Accenting Features

Espalier, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring

Location Uses

Background, Patio

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Irrigate in the early morning to minimize evaporation.