Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’

Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ or Tea Tree ‘Red Damask’ is part of the Myrtaceae family of plants. It is commonly known as Mānuka, Manuka, Manuka Myrtle, New Zealand Tea Tree, or Broom Tea Tree. It is native to New Zealand and Southeast Australia. Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ is a medium-sized shrub that flowers profusely attracting bees and butterflies.

It has aromatic, needle-like, dark green foliage. Flowers appear from April to July and they are deep pink almost cranberry red. After flowering, it produces woody capsules containing seeds.

Plant Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ in slightly acid, moist, fertile soil that is well-drained. Grow it in the sun or partial shade. It is however tolerant of poor soils and drought. Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ can grow to 2m or 7ft tall. It is deer-resistant as well as being pest-free and disease-free. Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.

Prune after flowering to shape it, but do not cut into bare wood as it will probably not sprout. Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’ is a prolific scrub-type tree which basically means it is one of the first plants to re-generate in a cleared land or after a fire.

Also read about Leptospermum ‘Apple Blossom’