Plant Description
New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a low-growing, deciduous shrub native to New Jersey and much of eastern North America. Typically reaching up to 3 feet in height, this hardy plant features pubescent (hairy) leaves that give it a distinctive grayish appearance. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, fragrant white flowers clustered in 2-inch branched clusters at the tips of its branches. These blooms are a magnet for pollinators like butterflies and bees, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly gardens (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center).
The shrub has a woody base with herbaceous, spreading branches above. While its fall color is insignificant, New Jersey Tea holds historical significance. During the American Revolutionary War, the dried leaves of this nitrogen-fixing shrub were used as a caffeine-free substitute for imported tea, which was scarce due to British blockades. This earned it the common name “New Jersey Tea” (USDA Forest Service).
New Jersey Tea thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It’s also resistant to deer browsing and can be used in borders, native plant gardens, or restoration projects. For gardeners interested in supporting native wildlife and honoring a piece of American history, this shrub is an ideal choice (Missouri Botanical Garden).
