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.