New Jersey Tea
(Ceanothus americanus)
Other Information
Physical Characteristics
Type: Shrub
Height: 2 - 4 ft
Spread: 3 - 5 ft
Flower Color: White / Cream
Flower Time: Early Summer (May - Jul)
Fruit Type: Seed Capsule
Fruit Color: Green / Dark Brown
Autumn Color: Insignificant / Yellow
Sun Conditions: Full Sun / Part Shade
Shade Tolerance: Low
Moisture Preference: Low / Medium
Deer Resistance*: Low / Medium
Dog Safe**: Insufficient Info
Conservation Status (MD): SNR - Unranked
Other Names:
*Deer resistance can vary based on many factors
**Always consult with a veterinarian about plants toxic to dogs and other animals
Wildlife Benefits:
New Jersey Tea is a pollen and nectar source for many pollinators including bees and butterflies. Songbirds and gamebirds consume the seeds. It is also a larval host for the Spring Azure, Summer Azure, Mottled Duskywing, and several other moth species. Twigs browsed by white-tailed deer and other mammals. Larger shrubs can provide cover for small wildlife.
Plants similar to New Jersey Tea:
Hydrangea arborescens - Wild Hydrangea
Viburnum acerifolium - Mapleleaf Viburnum
Itea virginica - Virginia Sweetspire