Broom Tea Tree is a striking evergreen shrub native to southeastern Australia and New Zealand, prized for its delicate cup-shaped flowers and aromatic, needle-like foliage. In USDA zones 9-10, this upright plant grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, sometimes reaching 15 to 20 feet or more in tree form. Its small white flowers bloom in late spring (June through July) and can be single or double in cultivars that display red, pink, or white blooms. The foliage releases a pleasant aroma when brushed or crushed, adding sensory appeal beyond its showy floral display.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-10
120in H x 120in W
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High
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The needle-like leaves release an aromatic fragrance when crushed, while solitary, cup-shaped flowers in white, pink, or red create a luminous display from June through July. This evergreen shrub thrives in full sun with acidic, well-drained soil and asks very little once established, tolerating moderate moisture and light shade. At maturity, expect a compact but impressive footprint of 6 to 10 feet in both directions, though some specimens grow tall and tree-like. The combination of fine-textured foliage, reliable flowering, and minimal pest and disease pressure makes it a low-maintenance addition to warm-climate gardens.
Broom Tea Tree serves primarily as an ornamental shrub in warm-climate gardens, valued for its decorative flowers and aromatic foliage. The small leaves are aromatic when crushed, offering sensory interest beyond visual appeal. Its evergreen nature, low maintenance requirements, and long flowering period make it suitable for landscape plantings, particularly in zones 9-10 where it flourishes with minimal intervention.
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Propagate species plants from seed or cultivars from cuttings. Plant outdoors in spring or early fall in zones 9-10, allowing young plants to establish before extreme heat. Space plants 6 to 10 feet apart to accommodate mature width.
Prune annually after flowering concludes in July or early August to maintain shape and density. This regular pruning encourages a fuller, more compact form. Remove any dead or crossing branches, and thin dense growth to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of root rot.
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“Leptospermum scoparium originates from southeastern Australia and New Zealand, where it evolved as a hardy coastal and inland shrub. The plant's common name, tea tree, reflects its historical use in these regions. Its journey to cultivation began as gardeners in temperate climates recognized its ornamental potential, particularly the showy flowering forms and aromatic foliage. Over time, numerous cultivars have been developed, expanding the color range beyond the species' native white flowers to include pink and red variations in both single and double forms.”