Leptospermum Scoparium "Big Red Tea Tree" 2.5Liter

Leptospermum scoparium 'Big Red' – New Zealand Tea Tree – 2.5L Bag

Product Description Leptospermum scoparium 'Big Red' is a magnificent, hardy evergreen shrub famed for its profusion of showy, deep crimson-red blooms and slender, aromatic foliage. During late winter, spring, and early summer, the branches become completely smothered in rich red, rosette-like flowers that create a vivid, long-lasting floral display. The tiny, aromatic needle-like leaves take on attractive bronze and burgundy tones during cooler weather, providing exceptional interest throughout the entire year.

Supplied in an easy-to-plant 2.5-litre bag, 'Big Red' establishes readily in sunny garden beds. Known for its tough constitution, drought tolerance once settled, and strong resistance to coastal conditions and light frosts, it is an indispensable shrub for water-wise borders, low-maintenance screens, and bird-friendly gardens.

Common Names

• Red Tea Tree
• New Zealand Tea Tree
• Leptospermum 'Big Red'
• Manuka Myrtle

Correct Botanical Name

• Leptospermum scoparium 'Big Red'

Product Details

• Container Size: 2.5L Bag
• Flower Colour: Deep crimson-red double flowers with dark centres
• Foliage: Fine, aromatic, dark green to bronze-red needle-like leaves
• Growth Habit: Dense, bushy, upright evergreen shrub
• Mature Size: Approximately 1.5–2m high with a spread of 1.2–1.5m
• Flowering: Mass blooming throughout spring and early summer, with intermittent flowering
• Light: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight)
• Water: Low to moderate (drought-hardy once well rooted)
• Suitable for: Outdoor garden beds, informal screening, and large patio containers

Benefits

❤️ Spectacular Red Floral Display: Masses of rich crimson-red double blossoms cover stems for weeks

🦋 Attracts Beneficial Wildlife: High-nectar blooms are magnetic to bees, butterflies, and nectar-feeding garden birds

🍃 Aromatic Bronze Foliage: Releases a pleasant herbal scent when brushed; displays rich bronzy winter undertones

💧 Water-Wise & Hardy: Excellent drought tolerance once established; copes well with wind and light frost

🧱 Versatile Hedging & Screening: Compact, bushy branching habit responds well to light pruning for neat garden screens

🌱 Easy-Care & Low Maintenance: Naturally pest-resistant and flourishes in full South African sun

Recommended Growing Medium & Compost Plant in light, well-draining garden soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Leptospermums dislike alkaline soils or heavy waterlogged clay. Dig a generous planting hole and blend in quality compost and coarse river sand to improve soil aeration and drainage. Mulch well around the base with pine bark or acid compost to keep the shallow root zone cool and retain moisture.

Recommended Fertiliser Feed in early spring as new growth starts using a balanced, low-phosphorus organic fertiliser (such as specialised protea/fynbos food or light organic pellets). Avoid heavy chemical feeding, as high phosphorus levels can damage the sensitive root system.

Growing Conditions

☀️ Light: Full sun is essential. Growing in maximum sunlight ensures the densest foliage and the heaviest floral bloom.

💧 Water: Water regularly until established. Once mature, allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering or poorly draining soil.

🌱 Soil: Sandy, loamy, or stony, well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

✂️ Maintenance: Prune lightly immediately after flowering to stimulate dense growth, maintain bushiness, and promote a heavier bloom the following season. Avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood.