RIVER TEA TREE Leptospermum obovatum Seeds

Leptospermum obovatum, commonly known as river tea tree, is a species of shrub producing dense, often pendulous foliage to about 2 meters tall by 1 meter wide Endemic to south eastern continental Australia, found along river banks and watercourses from southern New South Wales to western Victoria

The flowers are white, 8 C12 mm 0 31 C0 47 in wide with reddish brown bracts at the base of the flower bud but that fall before the flowers open Flowering mainly occurs from November to January

Hardy in cultivation It will grow in heavy shade, is frost hardy to 7, and a very useful screening plant

Attracts Wildlife :Bees, Butterflies, Other insects

Bush tucker: The fresh, pungent leaves are a fragrant and refreshing tea substitute Honeybees gather the nectar from its flowers

Bush medicine: Tea tree leaves were used by Aboriginal communities for their medicinal properties The leaves were often crushed or infused in water to create a herbal infusion or poultice This infusion was used to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, skin infections, cuts, and insect bites The antibacterial and antifungal properties of tea tree oil found in the leaves made it effective in combating infections

Insect Repellent: The strong scent of tea tree leaves was known to repel insects Aboriginal people would rub crushed leaves on their skin or burn them to deter mosquitoes and other biting insects

Other uses: Tea tree bark and branches were used for various practical purposes The bark could be fashioned into containers, baskets, or bark canoes The strong and flexible branches were used for making tools, such as digging sticks, hunting spears, and fish traps

Germination: Smoke treatment may improve results Germination usually occurs within 2 5 weeks Sow Late Spring Summer, optimal germination temperature 18 25 C Seed retains viability for several years stored at room temperature