Leptospermum flavescens
Cardwell Tea Tree
The Leptospermum flavescens, or Cardwell Tea Tree, is a hardy evergreen shrub or small tree native to Australia. Known for its fine, aromatic foliage and masses of small, white, tea tree-like flowers, it blooms prolifically from late spring to early summer, adding seasonal beauty to landscapes. Growing up to 3 to 8 metres tall, this versatile plant is ideal for hedging, screening, windbreaks, or feature planting in native gardens.
With its tolerance for various soil types and climates, the Cardwell Tea Tree is a reliable and attractive addition to both naturalistic and formal settings.
Specifications
- Height3 to 8 metres
- Width2 to 4 metres
- Native toAustralia
- FoliageFine, aromatic green leaves; evergreen
- Growth rateModerate to fast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterLow to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions
Additional Features
- FlowersSmall, white blooms in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators
- UsesPerfect for hedges, windbreaks, screening, or as a standalone feature plant
- SpacingPlant 1.5 to 3 metres apart for dense hedging or 4 to 6 metres for individual displays
- Low MaintenanceRequires minimal care; prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free and resilient
- Drought TolerancePerforms well in low-water gardens once established
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees and other pollinators
- Environmental BenefitsSupports native biodiversity and aids in erosion control
The Cardwell Tea Tree is a versatile and robust plant, perfect for creating privacy, supporting pollinators, and adding year-round greenery to gardens and landscapes.