Leptospermum petersonii (Lemon Scented Tea Tree) is a shrub which grows to a height of 4.5m. It has a hardiness rating of 9. The flowers from this plant are hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and they are pollinated by insects.
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Family: | Myrtaceae |
Habit: | Shrub |
Height: | 4.5 metres |
Range: | Australia |
Leptospermum petersonii Growing Guide
Ideal Soil and Planting Location
Lemon Scented Tea Tree will grow in light (sandy), medium (loamy),hard (clay) soil. It is important for the soil to be well drained. Lemon Tea Tree prefers moist soils. Lemon Tea Trees should not be planted in shady areas.
Succeeds in almost any neutral or acid soil of good or reasonable quality, preferring a light sandy loam and full sun. Prefers a position sheltered from hot or cold drying winds. This species is not very cold-tolerant. Plants are slightly frost-tender in Australian gardens.
Plants resent root disturbance and should be put out into their permanent positions as soon as possible. Does not regenerate from old wood. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Lemon Tea Tree Edible and Medicinal Uses*
* See disclaimer
The leaves are used to brew a strongly aromatic tea, or they can be added as a flavouring to china tea. They are strongly lemon-scented. The leaves, and especially the essential oil obtained from them, is antibacterial.
An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used as a bactericide.
Propagating Lemon Scented Tea Tree
Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter.
Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts, and give some protection from the cold for their first winter or two outdoors. The seed remains viable for many years. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5-8 cm with a heel, early August in a frame.
Over-winter in the greenhouse for its first year. Good percentage. Cuttings of almost mature wood, 4-5 cm with a heel, October/November in a frame.
References
The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. Author: Huxley. A.
