Mānuka's Superpowers

Manuka Tree: What To Know About Leptospermum Scoparium

Michael Bell

Published at: March 8, 2023
Updated at: February 27, 2025

11 minutes

The Manuka tea tree's distinctive traits and its symbiotic relationship with bees in New Zealand create the unique, nutrient-packed nectar that makes Manuka honey so prized across the globe.

Comparing Key Points

Topic	Details
Origins	Native to NZ, grown across the North and South Islands. Thrives in diverse climate zones.
Key Traits	Small white flowers, methylglyoxal in nectar, leathery antibacterial leaves.
Tree and Bees Relationship	Bees get MGO-rich nectar, tree gets pollinated in return.
Conservation	Protecting ecosystems, seed planting, and sustainable harvesting for future regeneration.

Executive Summary:

The Manuka tea tree (New Zealand tea tree) is a shrub native to New Zealand.
Every part of the Manuka tree can be utilized, including its bark, leaves, and oils.
Western honeybees use Manuka flowers to create Manuka honey, which contains beneficial compounds like MGO, leptosperin, DHA, and prebiotics.
Bees and the Manuka tree rely on each other—bees get unique MGO-rich nectar while enabling the tree's pollination.
Preserving the Manuka tree is crucial for ecological health and honey production.

What Type of Tree Does Manuka Honey Come From and Why Is It So Beneficial?

Manuka honey comes from the nectar of the Manuka tea tree native to New Zealand. The tree has unique antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which interact with enzymes from bees to produce honey packed with methylglyoxal (MGO), prebiotics, and other nutrients that make it more beneficial than other kinds of honey.

Everything to Know About the Manuka Tea Tree

You've likely heard about Manuka honey and its beneficial nutrients, but have you ever thought about what makes Manuka so special? Simply put, Manuka honey wouldn't exist without the Manuka tea tree.

So, what makes this plant so special? How does it set Manuka honey apart? In this article, we uncover everything you'll want to know about the Manuka tea tree.

What’s a Manuka Tree?

Famous for its flowers that are used to make Manuka honey, the Manuka tea tree (Leptospermum scoparium)—also known as Manuka myrtle and New Zealand tea tree—is an evergreen shrub native to New Zealand.

Manuka's aromatic leaves were used by Captain Cook and early pioneers for tea, hence its moniker, "tea tree." Yet, this fascinating plant has uses dating back even further.

Manuka trees typically grow between seven and 16 feet tall, but some can grow to be more than 30 feet tall. They have hard, red wood and evergreen leaves that are small and prickly, measuring around half an inch in size.

Each summer, Manuka tea trees flower for around two to six weeks. These sweet-smelling white and pink flowers attract all kinds of pollinators, most notably the honeybees responsible for the creation of Manuka honey.

Manuka Trees Are Resilient and Sustainable

Another interesting thing about the Manuka tree is that it's extremely resilient and is one of the first species to re-establish itself after land clearing. These plants can survive in otherwise inhospitable areas, and they can withstand drought and frost once they're established.

Many see the Manuka tea tree as an invasive species that needs to be managed since they seed and spread so easily. But in reality, these plants are essential for preventing soil erosion and provide the shade needed for slow-growing native plants to establish.

At Manukora, we believe the Manuka tree is a vital part of the ecosystem that helps so much life to flourish. That's why we're making reforestation efforts along waterways and only practice ethical beekeeping.

The Roots of the Manuka Tree: Its New Zealand Heritage

In the sprawling, untouched terrains of New Zealand, a country celebrated for its ethereal landscapes and natural wonders, the Manuka tea tree flourishes despite sometimes harsh climate conditions.

Its native grounds stretch from the northernmost tip of the North Island to the rugged coasts of the South Island, encapsulating a wide range of microclimates and geographies.

Amid dense clusters of ferns and tall Kauri trees, the Manuka tea tree stands as a testament to the island's lush biodiversity.

The Maori people, indigenous to New Zealand, have recognized the Manuka tea tree's significance for centuries—utilizing it not just for its honey but also for its various properties.

The New Zealand climate, often damp and rich in organic material, offers fertile ground where this tree can grow and blossom. Categorized as a shrub tree, the Manuka tea tree draws nourishment from the abundant, mineral-rich soil.

While it has the luxury of growing within a pristine environment, untouched by industrial pollutants, the Manuka tea tree is very resilient:

It's the first plant to re-establish itself after land clearing.
It can survive droughts and frost.
It plays an incredible role in preventing soil erosion, making it an essential part of a complex ecosystem.

The Manuka tea tree is not merely a plant but a symbol of the pure, unspoiled beauty and resilience that New Zealand represents.

As you savor the rich, complex, and caramel flavors of Manuka honey, it's as if you are tasting the essence of New Zealand itself.

Distinctive Botanical Traits

The Manuka tea tree possesses a set of distinctive botanical traits that set it apart from other trees and contribute to the exceptional qualities of Manuka honey.

The tree features small, pointed foliage with a leathery texture. While beautiful on their own, these leaves are also packed with beneficial compounds.

However, the most captivating feature of this wondrous tree is its flowers. The flowers are tiny, usually no larger than a dime. Yet, what they lack in size, they make up for in sheer potency and aesthetic allure. The flowers are typically white, and they bloom for only a brief period—just two to six weeks per year—creating a fleeting window during which bees busily collect the nectar necessary to produce Manuka honey.

Unlike the nectar from other flowering plants, Manuka nectar contains a nutrient called methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is well-known (and well-researched) for its antibacterial and antioxidant qualities. This beneficial nutrient is what makes Manuka honey so special.

Leptosperin is another nutrient found in Manuka tea tree nectar, which, along with MGO, can help authenticate genuine Manuka honey.

What Are the Special Compounds Found in the Manuka Tree?

Manuka honey has gained recognition as a super honey worldwide due to its nutritional content—which you can't find in your typical store-bought honey. These nutrients include:

Methylglyoxal (MGO): This naturally occurring compound is found only in Manuka honey. The higher the MGO level, the more potent the Manuka.
Leptosperin: This unique and powerful antioxidant differentiates Manuka honey from other honey and is used as an identifying marker by the Ministries of Primary Industries (MPI).
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA): DHA converts to MGO over time. DHA supports the body's natural immune responses.
Prebiotics: The prebiotics found in Manuka honey can support healthy digestion.

To ensure your Manuka honey is high-quality and authentic, we independently test each batch to certify its authenticity and potency.

All of our products come with a QR code to provide information on each product. When you scan the code with your smartphone, you will find:

Confirmation of authenticity
The batch number of the product
The harvest region
The beekeeper responsible
Third-party batch test results for MGO and Leptosperin
The strength of the Manuka honey in the product

At Manukora, we believe in ethical beekeeping and the protection of our Manuka tea trees. This is why the traceability of our products is essential so that you can feel good about your choice.

The Symbiotic Dance: Manuka Tree and Bees

In many ways, the Manuka tea tree and bees are part of a mesmerizing ballet. This mutually beneficial relationship offers advantages for the natural environment and gives us (and the bees) the deliciously creamy goodness of Manuka honey.

When the Manuka tree blooms, it issues an invitation—an aromatic beckoning—to the bees. Attracted by the flowers’ scents, bees swarm the Manuka tree. They buzz from flower to flower, collecting the precious nectar necessary to make their Manuka honey.

Yet, this entire relationship is built on reciprocity. The Manuka tree provides the bees with unique, MGO-rich nectar. In return, the bees play a vital role in pollination, ensuring the tree's life cycle continues.

Conservation and Sustainability: Protecting the Manuka Tree

With Manuka honey becoming more and more popular, the protection of the Manuka tea tree has never been more important than now. Yet, preserving this natural treasure goes beyond honey. It's about protecting an entire ecosystem that is vital to the health of our beloved planet Earth.

The Manuka tea tree offers shade for other plant species.
It helps stabilize the soil, allowing other more fragile and delicate plants to grow and flourish.

This is why various organizations and governmental bodies in New Zealand are actively involved in ensuring that the Manuka tree thrives. Initiatives include seedling planting programs, habitat restoration, and sustainable harvesting practices that ensure the tree's ability to regenerate.

At Manukora, we believe in supporting the natural environment in any way we can. While we love our daily indulgence of Manuka honey, we also know that supporting the Manuka tea tree and bees is about ensuring the health of our entire planet.

In an effort to give back to Mother Nature, our team actively participates in native reforestation along waterways, only sources our honey from beekeepers in remote regions, and stays ever-conscious of our own environmental footprint.

Manukora’s Connection with the Manuka Tree

When it comes down to it, Manukora is committed to upholding our end of the bargain. While the Manuka tea tree and bees give us this delightfully delicious golden nectar, we strive to give back to the environment, too.

Manukora not only produces exquisite Manuka honey but also offers unique tools like the Manukora Dose Spoon to enhance your honey experience. Our diverse Manuka Honey Collection, including the highly sought-after Manuka Honey MGO 600+ UMF 16+, exemplifies our dedication to quality and purity.

Moreover, we believe in educating our customers, offering insights on topics like:

How to Soften Honey
The pivotal role of bees in our ecosystem as explained in [Why Are Bees Important]
The deeper meanings behind these incredible creatures in [What Do Bees Symbolize]

Every step of the way, Manukora's beekeepers uphold The Art of Ethical Beekeeping, which is a traditional way of beekeeping that cares for both the bees and the environment.

This means:

We don't use pesticides, GMOs, or antibiotics.
We leave enough honey for the bees to get through the winter.
We avoid excessive hive transportation.
We allow for "raw" and "natural" processing of the honey, carefully harvesting it when it's ready.

As you savor your next spoonful of Manuka honey, such as Manukora's MGO 850+, pause for a moment to appreciate the rich legacy of the Manuka tea tree. Every jar represents a story of natural harmony, ethical stewardship, and the remarkable resilience of a tree that has stood the test of time.

Summary

The Manuka tea tree (Leptospermum scoparium) is a shrub native to New Zealand. It serves many important ecological purposes, including preventing soil erosion and covering slow-growing native plants.

Its versatile nature is echoed in the diverse range of Manuka honey products, such as the highly potent MGO 850+ Manuka Honey. For those seeking the ultimate Manuka experience, the MGO 1000+ Manuka Honey is a testament to the tree's remarkable offerings.

Understanding this plant's importance extends beyond its honey; the Maori's traditional use of the Manuka tree highlights its integral role in their culture.

Additionally, exploring the various benefits of honey and lemon, learning about the nature of honey bee stings, and discovering delicious ways to enjoy honey can further enhance your appreciation. To dive deeper into the world of Manuka, join the June Sweet Talks with Manukora, a series dedicated to sharing insights and stories about this remarkable tree and its honey.

All parts of the Manuka tree are useful, including its wood, bark, leaves, and flowers. The Maori have traditionally used this unique plant for everything from homebuilding to soothing sore muscles.

Today, it continues to have a multitude of uses for people around the world. Most notably, the Manuka tea tree's flowers are used to make Manuka honey, which is prized for its unique beneficial nutrients.

To learn more about everything Manuka, honey, and bees, explore the Manukora blog here.

To experience this unique variety of honey for yourself, explore our collection of authentic, New Zealand-derived Manuka honey here.

FAQs About the Manuka Tree and Manuka Honey

What is a Manuka tree?

The Manuka tea tree, scientifically known as Leptospermum scoparium, is an evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. Famous for its flowers, which are used to produce Manuka honey, it also has a range of other uses. Every part of the Manuka tree can be utilized, including its bark, leaves, and essential oils.

How does the Manuka flower contribute to the production of Manuka honey?

The Manuka flower plays a crucial role in the production of Manuka honey. These flowers bloom for around two to six weeks each year. In this short time frame, western honeybees collect nectar from the Manuka flowers and start the process of making Manuka honey. This honey is distinctive due to its unique beneficial nutrients, including MGO, leptosperin, DHA, and prebiotics.

**Why are Manuka trees (Leptospermum scoparium) considered resilient and sustainable?**

Manuka tea trees are known for their resilience and ability to adapt to harsh conditions. They are among the first species to re-establish themselves after land clearing and can survive in otherwise inhospitable areas. Additionally, these plants can withstand drought and frost once established, making them a symbol of sustainability in the ecosystem.