Woolly Teatree

(Leptospermum lanigerum)

Woolly Teatree (Leptospermum lanigerum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Leptospermum lanigerum, commonly known as Woolly Teatree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the cool temperate rainforests, damp forests, and coastal scrubs of southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. It exhibits a variable habit, typically growing as a large, spreading or erect shrub up to 3 meters (9.8 ft) in height and width, or as a compact, columnar form up to 3 meters high and 1 meter (3.3 ft) across. The Woolly Teatree is characterized by its dense foliage, with small, oblong leaves covered in fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. It produces showy white flowers, occasionally tinged with red, during the spring and summer months, which are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

The Woolly Teatree is valued for its hardiness, low water requirements, and striking flowers, making it a versatile choice for gardens. It is often used for ornamental purposes, as a hedge or screen, and in coastal plantings due to its salt tolerance. This species thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, and once established, it is drought-tolerant. Gardeners should be aware that Leptospermum lanigerum can be susceptible to webbing caterpillar infestations, which can defoliate plants if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 3-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Cool temperate rainforests, damp forests, and coastal scrubs of southeastern Australia, including Tasmania

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Leptospermum lanigerum, Leptospermum pubescens, Leptospermum lanigerum var. macrocarpum, Leptospermum microphyllum, Leptospermum tonsum, Fabricia sericea, Leptospermum australe, Leptospermum grandifolium var. vestitum, Leptospermum lanigerum var. concolor

GBIF Accepted Name: Leptospermum lanigerum (Aiton) Sm.