Leptospermum scoparium
Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as mānuka, is a hardy shrub native to New Zealand. It is renowned for its small, aromatic leaves and white to pink flowers, which are a vital source of nectar for bees producing mānuka honey. native trees
Image credit: Leptospermum scoparium on Wikipedia
Scientific Name | Leptospermum scoparium |
---|---|
Height | Up to 4 m (occasionally taller in ideal conditions) |
Spread | 1–2 m (bushy, upright habit) |
Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
Light | Full sun to partial shade |
Frost Tolerance | High (tolerates moderate to severe frost) |
Salt Tolerance | Moderate (tolerates some coastal exposure) |
Growth Rate | Fast (especially in open, sunny sites) |
Lifespan | Short to moderate (15–30 years) |
Leptospermum scoparium thrives in a variety of climates, from coastal to alpine regions. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, making it adaptable to different environments.
City | Climate Suitability |
---|---|
Whangārei | Ideal |
Auckland | Ideal |
Hamilton | Ideal |
Tauranga | Ideal |
Rotorua | Ideal |
Gisborne | Ideal |
New Plymouth | Ideal |
Napier | Ideal |
Whanganui | Ideal |
Palmerston North | Ideal |
Wellington | Ideal |
Nelson | Ideal |
Christchurch | Moderate |
Dunedin | Moderate |
Invercargill | Moderate |
Leptospermum scoparium prefers:
This plant thrives in:
Leptospermum scoparium requires:
Pruning is essential for Leptospermum scoparium to maintain its shape and encourage flowering:
Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) thrives in a range of soils, from poor sandy to clay, but prefers well-drained sites. Plant in full sun for best flowering. Space plants 1–2 meters apart. Water regularly during the first year, especially in dry periods. Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Protect young plants from frost and wind until established.
Growing Leptospermum scoparium from seed is rewarding:
Cuttings can be taken in late spring:
Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) has significant cultural importance in New Zealand. Māori traditionally used the wood for tools and weapons, and the leaves and bark for medicinal purposes. Mānuka honey, produced from its flowers, is now world-renowned for its antibacterial properties. The plant also features in Māori legends and is valued for its resilience in harsh environments.
Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) is generally hardy but can be affected by scale insects, thrips, and occasionally myrtle rust. Good air circulation and regular monitoring help prevent disease. Remove and destroy affected plant parts to minimize spread.
Plant Leptospermum scoparium in a sunny, sheltered spot to maximize flowering and protect from harsh weather. For maximum medicinal and therapeutic benefits from your mānuka, plant in poor, well-draining soil - this stress actually increases the medicinal compounds in the plant's leaves and flowers.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.