A graceful weeping tea tree smothered in masses of small white flowers in late winter and spring above fine arching foliage. A reliable, hardy feature and informal screen for native gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Weeping Tea Tree
Botanically, Leptospermum 'Cardwell' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Myrtaceae family, native to Queensland. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Weeping Tea Tree
Weeping Tea Tree suits subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Weeping Tea Tree does best in loamy, free-draining and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.5 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Weeping Tea Tree performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Weeping Tea Tree after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Weeping Tea Tree in the garden
Weeping Tea Tree earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge, feeding bees and pollinators and a windbreak.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Weeping Tea Tree with species that also favour happy on low water and subtropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Weeping Tea Tree
Plant Sale lists Weeping Tea Tree as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
