Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium)

Native to Aotearoa New Zealand

Gravel path lined with green mānuka bushes under a blue sky with clouds at Native Tree Farm in New Zealand

Mānuka is a native New Zealand shrub recognised for its aromatic foliage and delicate white or pink blossoms. While widely associated with mānuka honey, the leaf itself produces a distinctive herbal infusion and a variety of uses.

At Native Tree Farm, our Mānuka Leaf is certified organic, reflecting our commitment to carefully cultivated New Zealand native botanicals.

What Is Mānuka Leaf?

Mānuka grows throughout New Zealand, particularly in regenerating landscapes and coastal regions. It is identified by its fine, spiky leaves and seasonal flowering.

As a tea, mānuka leaf offers a lightly floral, earthy character with a smooth, balanced finish — distinctly different from conventional black or green tea.

Why It Matters

Mānuka is one of New Zealand's most recognised native plants. Beyond its association with honey production, the leaf represents a regionally authentic botanical ingredient in its own right.

For us, mānuka leaf reflects a broader focus on certified organic native botanicals grown with long-term care, traceability, and respect for the land.

Dried organic manuka leaves in a small bowl on a wooden table

: Certified organic mānuka leaf dried.

How We Work With Mānuka leaf

Our mānuka leaf is cultivated under certified organic practices and harvested with care to preserve its natural character. Leaves are gently dried and minimally processed before being packed as a single-ingredient tea or blended into selected formulations.

Organic certification supports our commitment to soil health, traceability, and responsible cultivation of New Zealand native plants.

Botanical Profile

Scientific name: Leptospermum scoparium
Origin: Native to New Zealand
Plant type: Evergreen shrub over 80 different chemo types available
Harvested part: Leaf
Flavour profile: Lightly floral, earthy, smooth

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Related Reading

Explore more about mānuka leaf, its preparation, and its role within our journal and our educational articles.