Contents
Description
Leptospermum Lanigerum, also known as Woolly Tea-Tree, is a shrub that belongs to the myrtle family. The plant is native to Australia and can grow up to 5 meters tall. The leaves of the plant are small and oval-shaped, and when young, they have a silvery-grey color. As the leaves mature, they turn dark green. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Leptospermum |
Appearance
The Leptospermum Lanigerum plant has a dense and bushy growth habit. The leaves of the plant are small, oval-shaped, and have a silvery-grey color when young. As the leaves mature, they turn dark green. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are about 2 cm in diameter and have five petals. The bark of the plant is rough and grey.
Care Guide
The Leptospermum Lanigerum plant is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the hot and dry months. Water the plant deeply and allow the soil to dry out between watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer during the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Leptospermum Lanigerum plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Scale insects: These insects can cause damage to the plant by feeding on its sap. Use a horticultural oil to control the infestation.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Leptospermum Lanigerum plant is native to Australia and can be found in various habitats, including heathlands, woodlands, and forests. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Leptospermum Lanigerum plant drought-tolerant?
A: While the plant can withstand some drought, it needs regular watering, especially during the hot and dry months.
Q: When is the best time to fertilize the Leptospermum Lanigerum plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer during the spring.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Leptospermum Lanigerum plant?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Q: Does the Leptospermum Lanigerum plant attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant produces flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Leptospermum Scoparium
- Leptospermum Petersonii
- Leptospermum Polygalifolium
References
- “Leptospermum lanigerum.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp13/leptospermum-lanigerum.html.
- “Leptospermum lanigerum.” PlantNet. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Leptospermum~lanigerum.
- “Leptospermum lanigerum.” Gardening Australia. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/woolly-tea-tree/9424556.
