Native plants
Manuka
Scientific name: Leptospermum scoparium
English name: New Zealand teatree,
Other names: Kahikatoa, manuka myrtle, broom teatree,tea tree
Tree, shrub
(10m - 15m)
- native to the Wellington Region
Suits: dry, partial shade, sunny, shelter, exposure, coastal forest garden, coastal and dune garden, small garden or balcony, wetlands and water features
About Manuka
Manuka is probably the best known New Zealand tree due to all its different uses. From honey to body lotions and tea. Ornamental as individual or in groups with masses stunning white flowers during flowering and many beneft for native wildlife. Often regarded as a shrub or a small tree up to 5 metre in height with small leaves with a short spine at the tip, giving it a somewhat prickly feel when handled, in opposite to the similar kanuka whose leaves are soft when handled The trunk has a light grey or brown coloration, peeling in long papery flakes often mistaken with the very similar tree fuschia. Branches are often sitting dense and erect. The flowers are white or sometimes pinkish and can sometimes almost cover the crown, giving the tree an apperance of being covered in snow. A small dry seed capsule if followed after flowering.
Easy to care for and tolerant of a wide range fo conditions and even some frost. Require however somewhat moist soil until fully established.
Kakariki have been known to use manuka by the leaves and bark to rid themselves of parasites by ingesting parts, they also chew it, mix it with preen gland oil and apply it to the feather coat.
Provides for lizards
- Nectar
- Complexity and height
Read more about gardening for lizards.