LEPTOSPERMUM S. CORAL CANDY

Planting Leptospermum scoparium ‘Coral Candy’

Leptospermum scoparium ‘Coral Candy’, commonly known as a New Zealand Tea Tree, is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its masses of small, coral-pink flowers and fine, aromatic foliage. It is ideal for adding colour and texture to sunny, sheltered gardens or containers.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers full sun for best flowering and compact growth
• Requires a warm, sheltered spot protected from cold winds
• Ideal for coastal gardens due to good tolerance of salt air
• Suitable for borders, gravel gardens, or containers
• Avoid exposed or frost-prone areas

Soil requirements

• Thrives in well-drained, acidic to neutral soil
• Prefers light, sandy or loamy soils
• Does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged conditions
• Improve drainage with grit or horticultural sand if needed
• Avoid chalky soils, which may affect plant health

How to plant in the ground

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and similar depth
• Loosen the soil at the base to encourage root establishment
• Position the plant so the root ball sits level with the soil surface
• Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly
• Apply a light mulch, such as bark or gravel, to retain moisture

Planting in containers

• Use a pot with good drainage holes
• Fill with a free-draining, ericaceous or multi-purpose compost with added grit
• Choose a container slightly larger than the root ball
• Water well after planting and allow excess water to drain
• Place in a sunny, sheltered position

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Leptospermum ‘Coral Candy’ is relatively low maintenance but benefits from the right conditions to thrive.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
• Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant
• Water during prolonged dry periods, especially in summer
• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering
• Avoid overwatering, particularly in cooler months

Feeding

• Apply a light, balanced fertiliser in spring
• Use an ericaceous feed if soil is neutral to slightly alkaline
• Container plants benefit from occasional liquid feeding during the growing season
• Avoid excessive feeding, which can lead to soft growth

Pruning

• Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape
• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as regrowth may be slow
• Regular light trimming encourages bushier growth
• Use clean, sharp tools when pruning

Mulching

• Apply a light mulch in spring to conserve moisture
• Bark or gravel mulch works well for this plant
• Helps suppress weeds and improve soil conditions
• Keep mulch away from the base of the stems

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

With proper care, Leptospermum ‘Coral Candy’ will provide long-lasting colour and interest in the garden.

Winter care

• Not fully hardy in colder climates and may need protection
• Protect from frost and cold, drying winds
• In colder regions, grow in containers that can be moved to shelter
• Use horticultural fleece during cold spells if planted outdoors
• Ensure excellent drainage to prevent winter root damage

Flowering and growth

• Produces masses of coral-pink flowers in late spring to early summer
• Best flowering occurs in full sun
• Regular light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages future blooms
• Healthy plants will maintain dense, fine-textured foliage year-round

Common problems

• Root rot can occur in poorly drained or waterlogged soil
• Leaf drop may result from cold stress or overwatering
• Poor flowering can be caused by insufficient sunlight
• Generally pest-free, though occasional aphids may appear
• Yellowing leaves may indicate unsuitable soil conditions

Leptospermum scoparium ‘Coral Candy’ is a beautiful and distinctive shrub that adds vibrant colour and fine texture to the garden. Its compact growth and striking flowers make it suitable for both borders and containers. With a sunny, sheltered position, well-drained soil, and light maintenance, it will thrive and provide a stunning seasonal display year after year.