New Jersey Tea

New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus)

New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a compact, deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its fragrant white flowers, deep green foliage, and exceptional adaptability. This hardy plant earned its common name during the American Revolutionary War, when its dried leaves were used as a tea substitute. Today, it�s valued for its ornamental qualities, drought tolerance, and support for pollinators.

Distinctive Features

New Jersey Tea forms a rounded mound of upright stems, typically reaching 2 to 4 feet tall and wide. In late spring to early summer, it produces abundant clusters of small, fluffy white flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The plant�s deep root system helps it withstand dry conditions, while its foliage remains lush and green throughout the growing season. In fall, the leaves often take on subtle yellow or bronze tones.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerant of sandy or rocky sites
• Water: Low to moderate; highly drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showy blooms and tidy form add interest to native plant gardens
• Pollinator Gardens: Excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies
• Dry Slopes and Hillsides: Deep roots help stabilize soil in challenging areas
• Naturalized Landscapes: Perfect for meadows, woodland edges, and restoration projects
• Foundation Plantings: Compact form works well in front-of-border applications

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; minimal irrigation needed once mature
• Pruning: Prune in early spring to remove dead wood and encourage bushier growth
• Fertilizing: No fertilizer typically required; thrives in low-nutrient soils
• Mulching: Use mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: May die back to the ground in colder zones but regrows vigorously

Why Choose New Jersey Tea?

• Native Plant: Supports local ecosystems and wildlife
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives in dry, sunny conditions once established
• Compact Size: Ideal for small gardens and low-maintenance designs
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects
• Focal Point: Fragrant white blooms and historical significance make it a unique garden feature

Ceanothus americanus delivers lasting ecological value, seasonal beauty, and exceptional toughness, making it a standout focal point in native gardens, pollinator habitats, and water-wise landscapes.