Ceanothus
americanus, commonly called New Jersey tea, is a compact, dense, rounded shrub
which typically grows 2-3′ tall (less frequently to 4′). It occurs in prairies,
glades, dry open woods and thickets. Cylindrical clusters (1-2″ long) of
tiny, fragrant, white flowers (1/8″) appear on long stalks at the stem
ends or upper leaf axils in late spring. Toothed, broad-ovate, medium to dark
green leaves (to 4″ long) are gray and hairy below. Young twigs are
noticeably yellow and stand out in winter. Dried leaves were used as a tea
substitute, albeit without caffeine, in American Revolutionary War times, hence
the common name. Shrub borders or native plant gardens. Also effective as a
shrubby ground cover for hard-to-grow areas such as dry rocky slopes and banks.
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part
shade. Best in sandy loams or rocky soils with good drainage. Drought tolerant.
Hardy in zones 4-8.
Growing
Instructions for the New Jersey Tea
The seeds have
a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for
spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions
and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. The seeds have a hard seed
coat that has to be treated, or scarified, in order for water to enter the
seeds so that they can sprout. 1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the
seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery
board. 2. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 3. Put the seeds in a ziplock
bag. 4. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 2-3 months. 5.
The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil
and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. 6. Sow the seeds
on the soil. 7. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 8. Water the soil so
that it is moist but not wet. 9. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they
can be transplanted.
David (verified owner) –
I would absolutely recommend this seed to anyone looking to grow veggies this year. I decided to do starts this year and just three days after planting
Nolan (verified owner) –
So far so good!
Avery (verified owner) –
I was happy about the quick delivery and that the seeds actually sprouted within 7 days
Charles (verified owner) –
The product is firmly packed.
Charles (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate