Free-flowering, award-winning Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ (Tea Tree) is a compact-rounded, densely branched, evergreen shrub with small, aromatic (when crushed), needle-like, deep-green leaves and striking, rich pink-red, fully double half-inch flowers (12 mm) in late spring and early summer.
This evergreen shrub typically grows to 2 metres tall and 1 metre wide, making it ideal for hedging, mixed plantings, or as a backdrop for smaller plants. Its dense growth habit and low-maintenance nature make it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking hardy native plants.
Leptospermum Red Damask is a hardy New Zealand native that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a relatively low-maintenance shrub for gardens. It prefers full sun or partial shade, well-drained soil, and tolerates coastal environments, drought, and frost.
Detailed Cultivation:
Soil: It prefers slightly acidic, fertile, and well-drained soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun or partial shade.
Water: Young plants appreciate consistently moist soil, while established plants prefer moderate, even moisture. It also tolerates drought.
Climate: Tolerates exposed sites and coastal locations.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Only prune out unsightly shoots when needed.
Other: It can be grown in containers, especially the smaller varieties.
Additional Tips:
Fertilizing: Fertilize with liquid fertilizer once a month during active growth.
Container Growing: When planting container-grown plants, choose a sunny, sheltered spot with moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
Weeding: It can seed prolifically and may be considered a weed in some areas, so seedlings may need to be removed.