Leptospermum ‘Burgundy Queen’ (Tea Tree)
Leptospermum ‘Burgundy Queen’ is an evergreen Australian native shrub valued for its rich burgundy-toned foliage and prolific flowering. It is widely used in landscape design for its colour contrast, durability, and suitability for a range of conditions.
The plant features fine, dense foliage that emerges in deep burgundy to reddish tones, particularly in cooler weather. In spring, it produces masses of small, double pink to red flowers that cover the plant, creating a vibrant seasonal display.
Key Features
‘Burgundy Queen’ is prized for its combination of coloured foliage and abundant flowering. The dark foliage provides year-round interest, while the seasonal blooms add strong visual impact.
It is highly adaptable and performs well in coastal and exposed environments. Its dense growth habit makes it suitable for hedging, screening, and feature planting.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a dense, upright to rounded shrub with fine branching.
It typically reaches 2 to 3 metres in height, with a spread of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Growth rate is moderate to fast under favourable conditions.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun. Full sun enhances foliage colour and promotes strong flowering.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant.
Water occasionally during extended dry periods.
Soil
Prefers well-draining soil and is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy soils.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for temperate and coastal climates. It tolerates wind, salt exposure, heat, and light frost.
Maintenance
Low maintenance. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages denser growth.
Fertilising is generally minimal but can support growth in poorer soils.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture during establishment.
Common Issues
Generally hardy with few problems.
Poor drainage may lead to root issues.
Reduced flowering may occur in low light.
Applications
Leptospermum ‘Burgundy Queen’ is suitable for:
Hedging and screening
Feature planting
Coastal gardens
Native and wildlife gardens
Mass planting
Commercial landscapes
Its foliage colour and flowering make it ideal for contrast planting.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Leptospermum scoparium ‘Burgundy Queen’ |
| Common Name |
Burgundy Queen Tea Tree |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub |
| Mature Height |
2 m to 3 m |
| Growth Habit |
Dense, upright |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate to fast |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun |
| Direct Sunlight |
Required |
| Watering Frequency |
Moderate once established |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, adaptable |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to coastal |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost |
| Drought Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Maintenance Level |
Low |
| Fertiliser |
Minimal |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Leptospermum ‘Burgundy Queen’
What colour are the flowers?
Double pink to red flowers appear in spring.
Does it have coloured foliage?
Yes, foliage has burgundy to reddish tones, especially in cooler weather.
Does it need full sun?
Yes, full sun is best for flowering and foliage colour.
Is it suitable for hedging?
Yes, it forms a dense hedge with minimal maintenance.
Is it drought tolerant?
Moderately drought tolerant once established.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches 2 to 3 metres in height.
