Contents
Description
Leptospermum Scoparium, commonly known as Manuka or Tea Tree, is a native plant of New Zealand and Australia. It belongs to the family Myrtaceae and is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows up to 5 meters in height. The plant has a wide range of cultivars, including the Red Damask cultivar, which is known for its stunning, bright red flowers that bloom in spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Leptospermum |
| Species | Scoparium |
Appearance
The Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask has a dense, bushy habit and can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide. The leaves are small, narrow, and pointed, and are a glossy dark green color. The plant’s most striking feature is its profusion of bright red flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers have a papery texture and are about 2.5 cm in diameter. The plant’s bark is also attractive, with a papery, peeling texture that reveals shades of brown and pink underneath.
Care Guide
Water
Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season, reducing the frequency during winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, from spring to autumn. Avoid fertilizing during winter.
Soil
Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or other organic matter to lower the pH.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask is generally a hardy plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it may occasionally be affected by scale insects or leaf spot diseases. To prevent these problems, ensure the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation.
Habitat
Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask is native to New Zealand and Australia and is commonly found in open forests, scrublands, and along streams and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask?
A: Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season, reducing the frequency during winter.
Q: What type of soil does Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask prefer?
A: Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or other organic matter to lower the pH.
Q: What is the plant’s hardiness zone?
A: Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask?
A: Leptospermum Scoparium Red Damask is generally a hardy plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it may occasionally be affected by scale insects or leaf spot diseases. To prevent these problems, ensure the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation.
Related Plants
- Leptospermum Burgundy Queen
- Leptospermum Petersonii
- Leptospermum Laevigatum
- Leptospermum Scoparium Nanum
References
- “Leptospermum scoparium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282479&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=>
- “Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’.” Gardenia. Accessed 17 August 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/leptospermum-scoparium-red-damask>
- “Leptospermum scoparium.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 17 August 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:597744-1>
