Ceanothus americanus
New Jersey Tea
General
A small shrub that fixes nitrogen and grows in low quality soils. Roots and root bark are occasionally used medicinally by herbalists, and the leaves were once used to make tea, the origin of the common name.
Plant Description
Growing up to 3’. Small, white compound flowers in spring or summer. Smooth, shiny green, finely serrate alternate leaves. Bark is dark, reddish brown. Small triangular fruits in late summer/early fall.
Height (ft)
3
Spread (ft)
3-5
Soil moisture
Low
Soil types
Sandy and rocky soils
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
White
Bloom period
Spring and Summer
Fall conspicuous
No
Anaerobic tolerance
None
Drought tolerance
High
Salinity tolerance
None
Self-Pollinating?
Yes
Range
Eastern half of the United States from Maine and Florida to Minnesota and the eastern half of Texas. Extending up into Canada.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, this species has been used by many tribes as a decoction or infusion as a wash for injured extremities and to treat colds. The leaves have also been used to make tea. The roots have been used to treat snakebites.