Shrub
Grayleaf Teabush
Melochia tomentosa
Varieties We Carry
StandardMelochia tomentosa
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$24.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow
Mature size6-10 feet × 6-8 feet (smaller with pruning)
About Grayleaf Teabush
Grayleaf teabush (Melochia tomentosa) is a tropical shrub native to Florida, the Caribbean, and tropical America with soft, gray-green velvety foliage and small pink to lavender flowers produced almost continuously in warm weather. It is an underutilized native with strong pollinator value. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- Pink
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Plant Grayleaf Teabush in full sun for maximum bloom and compact growth; it tolerates light shade but flowers less profusely. In NE Florida, full sun also improves air circulation and reduces humidity-related issues.
Water
Drought-tolerant once established; water new plants regularly until roots are established (about 8–12 weeks), then reduce to supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Overwatering or poorly drained soil should be avoided.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows best in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils typical of NE Florida; tolerates poor, dry soils and limestone. Fertilize lightly with a balanced slow-release formula (1-1-1 ratio) once in spring; heavy fertilization promotes excess vegetative growth over flowering.
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Common questions
Is Grayleaf Teabush a good plant for St. Augustine?
Grayleaf Teabush is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 6-10 feet × 6-8 feet (smaller with pruning).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.