LEPTOSPERMUM S. RED DAMASK

Planting Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’

Leptospermum scoparium ‘Red Damask’, commonly known as New Zealand Tea Tree, is a striking evergreen shrub valued for its deep red, often double flowers and fine, aromatic foliage. It is perfect for adding bold colour and texture to sunny, sheltered gardens or containers.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers full sun for the best flowering and dense growth
• Requires a warm, sheltered location protected from cold winds
• Ideal for coastal gardens due to tolerance of salt-laden air
• Suitable for borders, gravel gardens, and patio 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 or waterlogged conditions
• Avoid chalky soils, which may cause poor growth
• Improve drainage with grit or horticultural sand before planting

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 aid 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 conserve moisture

Planting in containers

• Choose a pot with good drainage holes
• Use a free-draining compost, such as ericaceous or multi-purpose with added grit
• Select 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 ‘Red Damask’ is relatively low maintenance when grown in suitable conditions and will reward with a vibrant floral display.

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 not naturally acidic
• Container plants benefit from occasional liquid feeding during the growing season
• Avoid excessive feeding, which can encourage soft, weak growth

Pruning

• Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape
• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Avoid cutting back into old wood, as regrowth may be slow
• Regular light trimming encourages a dense, bushy habit
• Use clean, sharp tools when pruning

Mulching

• Apply a light mulch in spring to help retain moisture
• Bark or gravel mulch works well
• Helps suppress weeds and improve soil structure
• Keep mulch away from the base of the stems

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

With proper care, Leptospermum ‘Red Damask’ will provide reliable colour and structure throughout the year.

Winter care

• Not fully hardy in colder climates and may need protection
• Protect from frost and cold, drying winds
• In colder areas, consider growing 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 performance

• Produces masses of deep red, often double flowers in late spring to early summer
• Best flowering occurs in full sun
• Regular light pruning after flowering encourages bushy growth and future blooms
• Evergreen foliage provides year-round texture and interest

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 ‘Red Damask’ is a bold and attractive shrub that adds vibrant colour and fine texture to the garden. Its compact habit makes it suitable for both borders and containers, while its rich red flowers create a striking seasonal display. With a sunny, sheltered position, well-drained soil, and minimal care, it will thrive and provide long-lasting visual impact year after year.

• Size
  3 lt

Kindly be aware when mix/ mixed/ assorted/ varieties is mention you will receive ONLY ONE plant/ item, which will be selected for delivery, photos may show different varieties available - which may also vary 

 
We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via DPD Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
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.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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