New Zealand Tea Tree Apple Blossom

A frost-hardy shrub for very mild areas, Leptospermum scoparium Apple Blossom is a tall, evergreen shrub with a rounded habit and arching branches. The green leaves are narrowly elliptical and needle-like, and are sometimes tinged pink, particularly in cold weather. From April to July there’s a strong flush of pretty, fully double flowers in shades of pink fading to white, with a second flush in autumn. Drought-tolerant, and good for wildlife, it’s best grown in the shelter of a warm wall. New Zealand tea tree Appleblossom holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure, including coastal exposure
Soil: Moderately fertile, very well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Mid-spring to mid-summer and autumn
Hardiness: Frost-hardy (to -5º)
Height: 6’6”-10’’ (2-3m); Spread: 6’6” (2m)