Balmina broom

Other names: Leptospermum scoparium, Balmum scoparium, manuka

The broom balm, also known by its Latin name Leptospermum scoparium or by other names such as the broom balm or manuka, is a plant native to New Zealand and southeastern Australia. This evergreen shrub can grow up to the size of a small tree and is notable for its beautiful flowers, which can appear in profusion for most of the year. The flowers are usually white or pink and form a large inflorescence that covers the entire shrub. The broom balm has fairly hard wood and its leaves are elongated, grey-green in colour.

Balm is mainly recognised for its health benefits. Its flowers produce honey, known as manuka honey, which has been shown to have extremely strong antibacterial properties. This honey is valued all over the world and is used both in gastronomy and in the cosmetics industry. In addition to honey, the plant also provides an essential oil that is used in aromatherapy and in the production of perfumes because of its unique scent. Balm wood can be useful not only for humans, but also for ecosystems, as it is vital for many insect species and thus contributes to their conservation. Its dense shrub can also serve as a natural fence or windbreak.