New Jersey-tea
Ceanothus americanus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey-tea) is a native deciduous shrub found across eastern and central North America that produces clusters of white flowers from June to July, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag New Jersey-tea as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
New Jersey-tea is a compact native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers in summer. It has a naturally rounded form and grows to a manageable 2-4 feet in both height and width, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces.
Growing New Jersey-tea
Grow New Jersey-tea in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
New Jersey-tea is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look sparse in winter when dormant
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure butterfly, mottled duskywing.
The white flower clusters are excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles during June and July bloom period. This shrub serves as a host plant for some native butterfly species.
Common questions
- Where does New Jersey-tea naturally grow?
- Ceanothus americanus is native to 39 states across eastern and central North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas, Nebraska, and Minnesota.
- When does New Jersey-tea bloom?
- New Jersey-tea produces its white flower clusters during June and July, providing nectar for pollinators during mid-summer.
- What pollinators visit New Jersey-tea?
- The flowers attract a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does New Jersey-tea prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates full sun to partial shade and thrives in low to medium moisture conditions, making it suitable for naturalized plantings and dry sites.
- Is New Jersey-tea toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag New Jersey-tea as toxic to livestock.
- Is New Jersey-tea HOA-friendly?
- New Jersey-tea is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow New Jersey-tea? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz