Woolly tea-tree, Silky Tea Tree
Leptospermum lanigerum

Family: Myrtaceae

What it is like

An erect shrub or small tree. It grows 2-5 m tall. It spreads 1.2-3 m wide. The stems are densely hairy. The leaves are dark green. They are oblong and 1.5 cm long by 2-4 mm wide. They are broadest near the tip. They are silky hairy underneath and taper to a blunt point. The flowers are white and with open petals. They are 1.5 cm across. The fruit is a 5 celled capsule. It is 12 mm across and is silky hairy at first.

There are about 82 Leptospermum species. Most grow in Australia.

Where it is found

It grows from temperate to subtropical locations. It grows from the coast to the mountains. It occurs in damp or swampy situations but also in well drained sites. It prefers moderately fertile soils in areas of high rainfall. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It can stand heavy frosts. It suits hardiness zones 8-10. Tasmania Herbarium. Arboretum Tasmania.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin), Britain, Europe, Tasmania (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

A tea like drink is made from the leaves.

Edible parts

Leaves - tea

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Balung, Woolerp

Synonyms

Leptospermum pubescens Lam.; Philadelphus laniger Sol. ex Aiton;