Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Herbs and aromatics
Exotic (Australian) | Moderate Care | Herbs and aromatics
Tea trees are graceful, fine-leaved Australian shrubs that produce masses of small, showy flowers along the branches in spring and early summer. Cherry Brandy has rich, double, dark pink to red flowers.
Confetti Queen has white flowers with a pink flush. Both have small, aromatic, dark green leaves on arching branches that give the plant a soft, elegant look. They are popular in South African coastal gardens for their long-lasting flowers, their attractive habit, and their ability to handle wind and sandy conditions. Like the waxflower, they are fussy about drainage and soil pH and do not enjoy heavy, alkaline or waterlogged soil, which earns them the moderate care rating.
1.5 to 2.5 m depending on variety.
Moderate.
Feature shrub, mixed border, cottage garden, cut flower, container. The double-flowered Cherry Brandy is particularly ornamental.
Full sun with good air circulation.
Well-drained, sandy, acidic to neutral soil. Does not tolerate heavy, alkaline or waterlogged conditions. In alkaline soil, grow in containers with acidic potting mix. No rich compost or high-phosphorus fertiliser.
Moderate. Water regularly while establishing. Reasonably drought-tolerant once settled, but needs consistent drainage more than it needs water.
Low-phosphorus fertiliser only, as with other Australian natives.
Light pruning after flowering keeps the plant compact and encourages more flowers next season. Do not cut into old, bare wood.
Ask about availability. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right plant for your spot.
