Maintenance Landscaping Design

Leptospermum scoparium is a small tree or shrub that is native to New Zealand. The leaves are slightly toothed and the flowers are white with five petals. The fruit is a small capsule that contains several seeds.

Popular name

• Manuka
  
• Tea tree
  
• Kanuka
  
• New Zealand tea tree
  
• Jelly bush

Good to Know

• Leptospermum scoparium, also known as manuka, is a shrub or small tree native to New Zealand and southeastern Australia.
  
• It is best known for its unique honey, which is produced by bees that pollinate the manuka flowers.
  
• Manuka honey has a variety of medicinal properties and is often used to treat wounds and ulcers.
  
• The leaves and bark of the manuka plant are also used in traditional Maori medicine.
  
• Manuka oil, which is extracted from the leaves, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  
• The manuka tree is also used for timber and wood products such as flooring, furniture, and charcoal.
  
• The plant is sustainably managed in New Zealand and Australia, and the honey is a valuable export.
  
• Leptospermum scoparium is not listed as endangered or threatened, but it is considered at risk due to habitat loss and degradation.
  
• The manuka plant has a long history of cultural significance to the Maori people of New Zealand.
  
• Leptospermum scoparium is the national flower of New Zealand.

Related plant:
Leptospermum

Planting Process

1. For leptospermum scoparium, first step is to find a place where they can get full sun.
   
2. Then, get some good potting mix and plant the leptospermum scoparium in it.
   
3. Water the plant well and keep it moist.
   
4. Fertilize the plant regularly.
   
5. Prune the plant regularly to keep it healthy.
   
6. Harvest the plant when it is ready.
   
7. Dry the plant properly.
   
8. Store the dried plant in a cool, dry place.
   
9. Enjoy the benefits of leptospermum scoparium!

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, Leptospermum scoparium prefers well-drained soil in full sun. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is tolerant of urban pollution. This species is moderately tolerant of salt spray. It is somewhat tolerant of light shade, but best growth and flowering occur in full sun.

Light condition

Not too different with other plants, Leptospermum scoparium needs sunlight to grow. However, this plant is unique in that it can also tolerate some shade. This makes it a great choice for gardens that do not get a lot of direct sunlight.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition for leptospermum scoparium is about 10 degrees Celsius. The plant grows in well-lit areas and does not require much water. The plant is also known to be able to tolerate frost.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% and above. The plant requires more water when the temperature is high and less water when the temperature is low. When the plant is grown in a pot, the potting mix should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this kind of plant benefits from a high phosphorus fertilizer in early spring to encourage bloom. However, too much phosphorus can encourage root growth to the detriment of the above-ground plant, so be careful not to overdo it. Regarding the roots, they are relatively shallow and benefit from a light mulch to help retain moisture.

About light

Pruning should be undertaken on an annual basis to encourage strong growth and to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. To prune, simply cut back the stems by around one third. This can be done in early spring before new growth begins.

The Propagation

Propagation of Leptospermum scoparium is typically by seed, which is readily available from commercial suppliers. However, cuttings from softwood or semi-ripe wood can also be successful. The ideal time for taking cuttings is late spring to early summer.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate during the day. The average growth rate is 2-3 centimeters a day. The record for the most leptospermum scoparium growth in one day is 12 centimeters. The plant growth rate depends on the weather conditions and the time of year. The plant growth rate is also affected by the amount of water and fertilizer that is available to the plant.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are that it can get infested with aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. The plant can also getpowdery mildew, which will make the leaves look white and feel powdery. If the plant gets too much sun, the leaves can get sunburned and turn brown.

Growing Tips

• Make sure to plant your leptospermum scoparium in an area that receives full sun.
  
• This plant prefers well-drained soil, so make sure your planting area has good drainage.
  
• Keep the soil moist but not wet.
  
• Fertilize your plant regularly using a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from getting too leggy.
  
• These plants can be susceptible to spider mites, so check for them regularly and take action if needed.
  
• You can propagate leptospermum scoparium by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in moist sand or perlite.
  
• This plant can be susceptible to powdery mildew, so make sure to provide good air circulation around the plant.
  
• You can bring your leptospermum scoparium indoors for the winter in colder climates.

Alternative Plants

• Leptospermum scoparium subsp. scoparium (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium subsp. erythrocorys (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium subsp. incanum (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium var. incanum (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium var. erythrocorys (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium subsp. glabrescens (Leptospermum scoparium)
  
• Leptospermum scoparium var. glabrescens (Leptospermum scoparium)
  

Source:
Leptospermum scoparium, manuka, New Zealand tea tree
Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) | HOLLIS for
Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) | HOLLIS for