I have written about this favourite tea tree of mine before, however I think it deserves another post which is more dedicated to its elegant branches and decorative bark. I took these photos of Leptopsermum brachyandrum ‘Silver’ at Kuranga native nursery last year, where they have used the species extensively around their pond and throughout their display gardens.

In the image above you can see it is planted right on the edge of the water, much as it would be found in NSW and QLD alongside waterways or creeks.

Leptospermum brachyandrum ‘Silver’ most often grows into a multi-stemmed, open shrub with lovely soft weeping habit. The fine grey green leaves droop and hang in a pendulous manner, making it an excellent species to provide dappled shade in the garden.

Another fantastic ornamental feature of this species is it flaky bark, which begins to peel as the warmer weather approaches. The pink and cream bark begins to flake off in preparation for Summer, leaving the smooth silver/green stems exposed.

The other reason I love this large shrub is its likeness to the habit of a small Mallee Eucalypt, in the image above you can see the multi trunked base creating a vase-like shape.

I like to use the same planting combination as Kuranga, you can see above Leptospermum brachyandrum ‘Silver’ contrasts beautifully with Banksia robur’s large broad leathery leaves and both enjoy moist soil, especially during a hot dry Summer.

So remember this one if you need a large feature shrub or small tree, it will grow to between 3 and 5metres in height and can withstand extended periods of inundation to it root zone. However also think of this species when you require something to draw the eye at trunk height and you will not be disappointed.