Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Melaleuca alternifolia forms a compact, fine-textured shrub with narrow, aromatic leaves rich in essential oils. When grown in Ireland under protection, it develops a tidy upright frame and produces delicate white bottlebrush blooms when conditions are sufficiently warm. All plants are propagated in our nursery in Co. Clare from healthy stock to ensure vigour and true-to-type characteristics.

Growing conditions: This is a tender perennial that requires a consistently warm, bright position and will not overwinter outdoors in the Irish climate. Full sun is ideal, and plants must be kept indoors, in a heated glasshouse, or in a bright conservatory during colder months. Use a free-draining substrate and avoid waterlogging, as Tea Tree dislikes stagnant moisture. Can be placed outdoors in summer once frost risk has passed.

Traditional & herbal uses: Tea Tree is widely used today for topical antiseptic applications, with extensive modern research documenting its antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activity. Peer-reviewed studies have investigated Tea Tree essential oil for skin complaints, wound hygiene, and respiratory support via inhalation. Its decongestant volatile oils are valued in steam preparations, and its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties remain a core focus of contemporary phytochemical research.

Maintenance & harvesting: Keep plants sheltered year-round, protecting from all frost. Prune lightly to maintain a compact framework and promote dense leafy growth. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, but never fully. Harvest small amounts of fresh leaf material as needed. Repot annually to maintain root health, and monitor for cold-stress in winter.