KINGDOM: Plantae
ORDER: Myrtales
FAMILY: Myrtaceae
TRIBE: Leptospermeae
GENUS: Leptospermum
Commonly known as tea trees, Leptospermum is a genus of shrubs and small trees in the myrtle family. Most of which are endemic to Australia but there are some also native in New Zealand and Southeast Asia.
Leptospermums are grown in a wide range of habitats but are most commonly found in moist, low nutrient soils. Popular as a cut flower and for honey production.
Leptospermum all have five conspicuous petals and five groups of stamens which alternate with the petals. There is a single style in the centre of the flower and the fruit is a woody capsule.
