Leptospermum Kea
Leptospermum Kea is a compact evergreen shrub grown for its masses of soft pink single flowers, which appear freely from spring into early summer. Its fine, dense foliage provides year-round texture, while the flowering display brings fresh colour and seasonal interest to the garden.
This variety is a lovely choice for borders, mixed shrub plantings, coastal gardens, and feature planting in smaller spaces. Its tidy habit also makes it well suited to informal hedging and low-maintenance gardens, where it adds both colour and structure without becoming overpowering.
Plant in a sunny position in well-drained soil for best performance. It copes well with dry periods once established and is a reliable option for exposed or coastal sites. Allow around 60-80cm spacing so plants have room to form a full, healthy shape.
At maturity, it forms a dense, bushy shrub around 50-60cm tall and wide.
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Trimming: Leptospermum Kea is a naturally compact dwarf mānuka, so only light trimming is usually needed. Tidy after flowering or in early spring to maintain a dense, neat shape, removing any dead or straggly growth. Avoid hard cutting into old wood.
Deadheading: Deadheading is not essential, but spent flowers can be lightly removed if you want to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage a cleaner appearance through the flowering season.
Fertilising: Apply a light dressing of slow-release shrub fertiliser in spring if growth is poor or the soil is lacking. Avoid heavy feeding, as mānuka generally performs better without excessive fertiliser.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase so the roots can settle in well. Once established, Leptospermum Kea is fairly hardy and copes with dry spells, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during extended hot, dry periods. Free-draining soil is important.
Pest control: Check for scale insects, caterpillars and spider mites, particularly during warm or dry weather. Watch for sticky residue, chewed growth, fine webbing or foliage discolouration. Treat early with insecticidal soap, a suitable garden spray, or by pruning out badly affected growth.
Disease management: The main issue is root stress or root rot in poorly drained sites. Look for yellowing, dieback or a general loss of vigour. Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove affected stems if fungal dieback appears. Good airflow around the plant will also help reduce disease problems.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
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