New Jersey Tea

About this plant

Ceanothus americanus, affectionately known as New Jersey Tea, is a truly remarkable native shrub that brings effortless beauty and ecological value to any garden. From late spring to early summer, it erupts in a stunning display of foamy white flower clusters, creating a breathtaking spectacle that attracts a lively cast of pollinators. Beyond its floral charm, this plant offers a robust and adaptable structure. Its compact, rounded form and attractive green foliage provide season-long interest, turning a lovely golden hue in the fall. During the Revolutionary War, its leaves were famously used as a caffeine-free tea substitute, giving it a unique historical significance. New Jersey Tea thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes, naturalized areas, and pollinator gardens. Its deep roots contribute to erosion control and allow it to withstand drought once established, ensuring its place as a reliable and rewarding addition to your outdoor space.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Generally low-maintenance once established. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain desired shape. Avoid heavy fertilization. Tolerant of poor soils.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.