Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Tea Tree

Melaleuca alternifolia

Its aromatic leaves hold medicinal calm, a sun-loving evergreen shrub. Common name: tea tree.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day; tolerates light shade in extreme heat
💧
Watering Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Tolerates mild frosts down to 5°C; prefers warm, temperate climates between 18–28°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, aromatic leaves (10–25 mm long) with a pointed tip; arranged alternately on stems
  • Flower: Clusters of white, brush-like flowers with prominent, feathery stamens
  • Stem/Bark: Papery, peeling bark in shades of white, gray, or light brown
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Apply diluted, balanced fertilizer once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in to release calcium gradually without causing pH imbalance
Pruning
  • Prune immediately after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new growth
  • Remove dead or diseased branches to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Trim back overgrown stems in early spring to promote bushier, more vigorous growth
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no reported adverse effects from plant material ingestion

Humans: No known toxicity from foliage ingestion; concentrated essential oil may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with natural medicinal properties; symbolizes calm and healing in wellness contexts

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; source of tea tree oil for medicinal, cosmetic, and antimicrobial uses