Leptospermum scoparium “Red Damask”

Tea Tree
Leptospermum scoparium “Red Damask”
Type: Evergreen Shrub
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular to Drought Tolerant

This native of New Zealand grows to 9ft (3m) tall and wide and is densely clothed with small, silky, aromatic leaves. These leaves were used by Captain Cook upon his landfalls in New Zealand and Australia in an attempt to ward off scurvy for his crew, giving rise to the common name; however, this plant does not yield tea as we know it. This particular cultivar bears showy, fragrant double red blossoms in late spring or summer, followed by seed capsules which release thin seeds (“leptospermum” means “slender seeds”) in fall. New growth can be a reddish color before changing to deep green. It looks best in sheltered locations.

Flower photo courtesy www.deeproot.co.uk

Cheers,

John