Herb latin name: Leptospermum polygalifolium


Synonyms: Leptospermum flavescens


Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle Family)



Edible parts of Leptospermum polygalifolium:

The leaves are a tea substitute.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Shrub

Height:
3 m
(9 3/4 foot)

Flowering:
July to
August

Habitat of the herb:

Montane areas, especially on fairly poor soils. Heaths and dry sclerophyll forests, usually on sandstones and deep sandy soils.

Other uses of Leptospermum polygalifolium:

Wood - tough, close grained. Used for poles, stakes, fuel etc.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts, and give some protection from the cold for their first winter or two outdoors. The seed remains viable for many years. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8 cm with a heel, early August in a frame. Over-winter in the greenhouse for its first year. Good percentage. Cuttings of almost mature wood, 4 - 5 cm with a heel, October/November in a frame. Good percentage.

Cultivation of Leptospermum polygalifolium:

Montane areas, especially on fairly poor soils. Heaths and dry sclerophyll forests, usually on sandstones and deep sandy soils.

Medicinal use of the herb:

None known

Known hazards of Leptospermum polygalifolium:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.