LEPTOSPERMUM S. CORAL CANDY

Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy' Care Guide

Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy', commonly known as the New Zealand Tea Tree, is a striking evergreen shrub that produces an abundance of delicate coral-pink flowers in late spring and summer. Its fine, needle-like foliage adds texture and contrast to the garden, and its compact, bushy growth habit makes it ideal for borders, hedging, rock gardens, and container planting. This variety is particularly valued for its long-lasting blooms that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy'
• Common Name: New Zealand Tea Tree ‘Coral Candy’
• Plant Type: Evergreen flowering shrub
• Mature Size: Typically reaches 1.5m-2m in height with a similar spread.
• Foliage: Small, narrow, dark green leaves with a slightly aromatic scent when crushed.
• Flowers: Abundant coral-pink blooms with darker centers, appearing in spring and summer.
• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 8-11, tolerating mild frost but requiring protection in severe cold.
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing, forming a dense, bushy habit.

Light and Soil Requirements

• Light: Thrives in full sun, which encourages profuse flowering and maintains compact growth.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
• pH Level: Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil, similar to its native habitat.

Watering and Moisture

• Newly Planted Shrubs: Water regularly for the first few months to establish strong roots.
• Established Plants: Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during hot, dry periods.
• Container Plants: Requires consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Planting and Maintenance

How to Plant Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy'

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or autumn when temperatures are moderate.
• Spacing: Allow at least 1-1.5m between plants to ensure good air circulation.
• Planting Depth: Place the root ball at soil level, and backfill with light, well-draining soil.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning and Shaping

• Minimal Pruning Required: Naturally maintains a dense, bushy shape.
• Best Time to Prune: Prune lightly after flowering (late summer or early autumn) to encourage new growth.
• What to Remove: Cut back damaged, weak, or overly long shoots to keep the plant tidy.
• Shaping: Can be clipped to maintain a compact hedge or topiary form if desired.

Feeding and Fertilization

• Spring Feeding: Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring to boost flowering.
• Summer Boost: Use a liquid seaweed or organic feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Mulching: A fresh layer of compost or well-rotted manure in spring enhances soil fertility.

Common Pests, Diseases, and Seasonal Care

Potential Pests and Diseases

• Scale Insects: Can appear on stems and leaves, sucking sap from the plant.
  • Solution: Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
• Aphids: May infest new growth, leading to curled leaves.
  • Solution: Spray with soapy water or encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
• Root Rot: Can occur in poorly drained soil.
  • Solution: Ensure the plant is grown in free-draining soil and avoid excessive watering.

Seasonal Care Tips

• Spring: Fertilize, prune lightly, and apply fresh mulch.
• Summer: Water during extended dry periods, deadhead spent flowers, and check for pests.
• Autumn: Remove fallen leaves, refresh mulch, and trim lightly to maintain shape.
• Winter: Hardy in mild climates, but protect from severe frosts with fleece or mulch.

Landscape Uses and Companion Planting

Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy' is an excellent ornamental shrub, perfect for coastal gardens, Mediterranean-style landscapes, and wildlife-friendly gardens. It pairs well with drought-tolerant and pollinator-attracting plants, adding structure and color throughout the year.

Ideal Companion Plants

• Lavender – Complements the coral-pink blooms with purple flowers and fragrance.
• Salvia – Provides a vibrant summer display and attracts bees and butterflies.
• Euphorbia – Adds structural contrast with its bold foliage.
• Grasses (such as Festuca or Stipa tenuissima) – Creates movement and texture.

Summary

Leptospermum scoparium 'Coral Candy' is a low-maintenance, evergreen flowering shrub that thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. Its abundant coral-pink flowers, fine-textured foliage, and compact growth habit make it an ideal choice for hedging, borders, containers, and pollinator-friendly gardens. With minimal pruning and care, it remains a stunning and easy-to-grow addition to any outdoor space

• Size
  3 lt

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Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
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