Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ – Australian Native Guide

What is Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’?

Leptospermum is a genus of shrubs and small trees commonly known as tea trees. Early Australian settlers soaked Leptospermum leaves in boiling water to make a tea substitute, hence the name.

There are many species and named varieties of these fast-growing shrubs. They typically have small leaves and white, pink, or red flowers that bloom in spring or summer. Some of the most widely cultivated species are the Coastal tea tree, Port Jackson tea tree and Lemon-scented tea tree. 

One of the prettiest tea trees for Australian gardens is Leptospermum polygalifolium which is a species of the Myrtaceae or Myrtle family. This cultivar is commonly known as Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’, due to the colour of the foliage. 

It is a quick-growing, large, evergreen shrub or small tree which grows to a height of 2-3m and can spread up to 2m wide at maturity.  

The stunning tea tree has native has small narrow copper-green coloured foliage. This colour is more prominent on the upper surface and slightly paler beneath. In spring the plant produces beautiful cream-white flowers. 

Once established, Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ are heat and drought tolerant plants. These hardy natives can also withstand light frost and coastal conditions. 

Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ Flowers

This Leptospermum cultivar flowers for an extended period from spring. It produces attractive cream-white flowers which contrast beautifully with the copper foliage. The five-petalled flowers are typically around 1.5-2 cm in diameter.  

The flowers are full of nectar and will attract honeyeaters and native animals to the garden. 

Growing Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’

Ideal Soil and Position for Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’

Leptospermum polygalifolium can grow well in most soil types and being natives are used to low nutrient Australian soils. The soil should be well-drained and a light, loose sandy soil is ideal. 

Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ should be planted in a spot of the garden where it will get full sun. This native shrub will also tolerate being planted in a semi-shaded position. Avoid damp areas of the garden in deep shade. 

The copper-coloured foliage of this native shrub contrasts nicely with the typical deeper greens of other plants in the garden. Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ is often used as a flowering hedge or screening plant. 

They are hardy plants and will tolerate most soil types, if they are well-draining, making them a great option for many Australian gardens. Copper glow tea trees are a popular choice in coastal gardens.

How to Care for Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’

Leptospermum polygalifolium ‘Copper Glow’ is a tough, hardy plant and will be a low maintenance addition to your garden. Until the plant becomes established in your garden, you will need to water the tea tree regularly. After about 3 months you can dial back watering in accordance with weather conditions. 

Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ are drought tolerant plants and have low water requirements. Water the tea tree during extended hot, dry periods but otherwise rainfall should be sufficient to keep this plant happy. Mulch around the shrub to maintain soil moisture. This will also help with weeds 

These native plants can grow quite happily in poor soil so don’t need lots of fertiliser to thrive. To help flowering you can add some all-purpose Australian native plant fertiliser in spring. Avoid fertilisers with lots of nitrogen as this will result in excessive tip growth and impact flowering.

Leptospermum ‘Copper Glow’ will benefit from pruning to ensure they are kept tidy and shaped. Trim back the tea tree after it has finished flowering. The native shrub will also tolerate more severe pruning if required or if you are trying to form a hedge. 

These native tea tree plants are normally problem-free and are not typically impacted by pests and diseases.