Jellybush

(Leptospermum polygalifolium)

Jellybush (Leptospermum polygalifolium)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Leptospermum polygalifolium, commonly known as Jellybush, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to coastal heathlands, open forests, and swamp margins in Eastern Australia and Norfolk Island. It typically grows to a height of 0.5–3 meters (1 ft 8 in – 9 ft 10 in) when shrubby, but can reach over 7 meters (23 ft) as a tree. Jellybush has thin, fibrous bark and elliptical leaves that are aromatic when crushed. Its white, greenish, or cream-colored flowers, sometimes pink, are about 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) in diameter, appearing mainly from August to January, and are quite showy as they are profuse and attract a variety of pollinators. The fruit, a woody capsule, persists on the plant for several years.

Jellybush is valued for its ornamental flowers, honey production, and as a source of ’Manuka’ honey, which has medicinal properties. It is used in gardens for screening and as a feature plant due to its attractive form and flowers. This species is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and it thrives in full sun. While it tolerates medium amounts of water, it is also quite drought-resistant once established. Jellybush is relatively low-maintenance but can be affected by webbing caterpillars and scale insects. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-9 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal heathlands, open forests, and swamp margins in Eastern Australia and Norfolk Island

Other Names

Common Names: Tantoon, Yellow Tea Tree

Scientific Names: , Leptospermum polygalifolium, Leptospermum flavescens var. javanica,

GBIF Accepted Name: Leptospermum polygalifolium Salisb.