New Jersey Tea

The New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a charming and versatile native shrub that brings beauty and ecological value to your garden. This deciduous shrub features delicate clusters of creamy white flowers that bloom in late spring, creating a lovely contrast against its dark green foliage. The flowers not only add visual appeal but also attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, making it an excellent choice for supporting local wildlife. The New Jersey Tea is known for its adaptability to different soil types, including dry and rocky soils, making it a resilient and low-maintenance option for various garden settings. Its compact and rounded form reaches a height of about 3 to 4 feet, making it suitable for smaller gardens, borders, and mixed perennial beds. Additionally, the leaves of the New Jersey Tea have a unique fragrance when crushed, adding an extra sensory experience to your garden. This native shrub is also valued for its historical significance, as its leaves were once used as a substitute for traditional tea during the American Revolutionary War. By planting the New Jersey Tea in your garden, you not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to the preservation of native species and support local wildlife populations.