Tea Tree Plant - Melaleuca Alternifolia is mainly used in producing essential oil known as tea tree oil. When in bloom, it produces white bottle brush like flowers, with an almost snowflake like appearance. The foliage is thin and delicate, giving the appearance of a conifer. The tea tree was named by eighteenth century sailors, who made tea that smelled like nutmeg from the leaves of the tree. The chemicals in tea tree oil might kill bacteria, fungus, and mites, and reduce allergic skin reactions by decreasing swelling.Considered a houseplant in our zone (7), this plant cannot handle the winters outside in our zone. Do not confuse the tea tree with the unrelated common tea plant that is used to make black and green teas.

Growth Habit

Grows up to 6-10 ft. tall and wide. Tea tree information suggests that one of the most attractive features is the trunk, with its gorgeous, papery bark.  If you are thinking of growing a tea tree, note that the tree can get 20 feet tall and 10 or 15 feet wide but can be pruned. Athough you'll notice that this plant grows very fast in full sun, your tea tree won’t flower until it has been around for a few years.

Care

Grows best in zones 8-11 and with temperatures around 65 F. Easily grown in acidic, fertile, well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. Young plants appreciate consistently moist soil, but established plants prefer moderate but even moisture. For those growing a tea tree in a container, regular watering is a requirement. Tea trees are not one of those potted plants that like drawing out. Keep that soil a bit moist at all times.

Toxicity

Even though tea tree oil is very toxic to cats and dogs it can still be found in a variety of pet products. Claims that it repels fleas and ticks, cures allergies and soothes skin are very common. As little as 7 drops of 100% tea tree oil have been known to cause severe toxicity and/or death.