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River Tea Tree (Leptospermum obovatum) seeds

River Tea Tree (Leptospermum obovatum) seeds

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LEPTOSPERMUM OBOVATUM
Common Name: River Tea-Tree

Quick Facts

  • Height: 2 meters
  • Width: 1 meter
  • Flowers: White, 8–12 mm wide, bloom from November to January
  • Foliage: Dense, pendulous, fragrant leaves
  • Habitat: River banks and watercourses in south-eastern continental Australia
  • Soil: Tolerates a range of soils, prefers well-drained
  • Sunlight: Grows in full sun to heavy shade
  • Hardiness: Frost-hardy to -7°C
  • Wildlife Attraction: Bees, butterflies, and other insects

Why Grow Leptospermum obovatum?

  • Screening Plant: Excellent for creating dense screens or hedges.
  • Versatile: Thrives in shaded or sunny areas, making it suitable for a variety of garden settings.
  • Wildlife Habitat: Attracts pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.
  • Hardy: Tolerates a range of environmental conditions, including frost and shade.

Bush Tucker Note

  • Tea Substitute: The leaves can be brewed into a fragrant and refreshing tea.
  • Honey Production: A nectar-rich plant that supports honeybees and other pollinators.

Bush Medicine

  • Traditional Use: Leaves were crushed or infused to create a herbal remedy for coughs, colds, skin infections, and cuts.
  • Antibacterial Properties: Contains tea tree oil with antifungal and antibacterial benefits.
  • Insect Repellent: Leaves were burned or rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes and other biting insects.

Medicinal Warning: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally.

Other Uses

  • Practical Applications: Bark was used to make containers, baskets, and canoes.
  • Tools and Equipment: Branches were fashioned into digging sticks, hunting spears, and fish traps.

Germination Tips

  • Sowing Instructions:
    • Smoke treatment can enhance germination.
    • Sow seeds late in spring or summer.
    • Lightly scatter seeds and keep soil consistently moist.
  • Conditions:
    • Optimal germination temperature: 18–25°C.
    • Germination time: 2–5 weeks.
  • Storage: Seeds remain viable for several years at room temperature.

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Add the resilient Leptospermum obovatum to your garden! With its dense foliage, fragrant leaves, and vibrant flowers, this versatile tea tree is perfect for screens, wildlife habitats, and bush tucker enthusiasts.