Leptospermum Lemon Frost

Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost'

Description: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost', commonly known as Lemon Frost Tea Tree, is a delightful evergreen shrub known for its aromatic foliage and profusion of white flowers. This Australian native plant is prized for its hardiness and ornamental appeal, making it an excellent choice for a variety of garden settings.

Flowers: The flowers of Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost' are small, white, and dainty, appearing in abundance from late winter to early summer. These charming flowers cover the plant, creating a stunning display and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Foliage: The foliage of 'Lemon Frost' is aromatic, releasing a pleasant lemon scent when crushed. The small, narrow leaves are bright green, providing a fresh and vibrant backdrop for the white flowers. The foliage remains attractive year-round, adding to the plant's appeal.

Form and Size: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost' has a compact, bushy growth habit, typically reaching up to 1-2 meters (3-6.5 feet) in height and spread. Its dense form makes it ideal for use as a hedge, border plant, or in mixed shrub plantings.

Growing Conditions:

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright light but can tolerate some shade, particularly in hotter climates.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. It adapts well to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, and prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Water: Low to moderate water requirements once established. Water regularly during the growing season to establish roots and reduce watering as the plant matures. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during extended dry periods.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm, temperate to subtropical climates. Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Protect from frost and extreme cold.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity levels. Suitable for typical garden conditions without the need for additional humidity.

Uses: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost' is primarily grown for its ornamental value. It makes an excellent hedge or border plant, providing a dense, evergreen screen. The plant's aromatic foliage and profusion of white flowers add visual and sensory interest to garden beds, borders, and large containers. It is also well-suited for use in native and wildlife gardens, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.

Maintenance: This plant is relatively low-maintenance. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant healthy. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize lightly in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

Notes: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost' is non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and children. It is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects, which can be treated with appropriate insecticides.

Companion Plants: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost' pairs well with other low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants with similar growing requirements, such as:

• Grevillea species
• Callistemon species (Bottlebrush)
• Westringia fruticosa (Coastal Rosemary)
• Correa species

Common Name: Lemon Frost Tea Tree

Botanical Name: Leptospermum 'Lemon Frost'

Family: Myrtaceae

Origin: Native to Australia, cultivated as an ornamental plant variety

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