The White Flowering Henna Tree (Lawsonia inermis var. Alba) is a tropical shrub valued for its fragrant white blooms and natural dye-producing foliage. This non-GMO variety thrives in warm climates, full sun, and well-drained soil. Its glossy leaves, dense branching, and clusters of scented flowers make it an impressive ornamental shrub for containers, courtyards, and landscape borders in frost-free regions.

Features

• Fragrant clusters of creamy white flowers
• Non-GMO Henna tree variety
• Foliage contains natural dye-producing compounds
• Thrives in full sun and hot climates
• Suitable for landscape planting or patio containers
• Glossy green leaves and dense branching habit
• Drought tolerant once established
• Long-lived evergreen shrub in warm regions

Specifications

• Common Name: White Henna Tree, Alba Henna
• Scientific Name: Lawsonia inermis var. Alba
• Plant Type: Shrub/Small Tree
• USDA Zones: 9–11 (grown in containers in cooler zones)
• Season: Blooms spring through summer
• Height: 4–12 feet (larger in tropical climates)
• Bloom Color: White to cream
• Foliage: Glossy green leaves
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant after establishment
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast in warm climates
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent
• Cold Tolerance: Poor; frost sensitive
• Plant Spacing: 4–6 feet for shrubs
• Seed Longevity: 2–3 years when stored dry and cool

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Start indoors or in warm greenhouse conditions.
• Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before planting.
• When to Plant:
• Indoors anytime with warmth
• Outdoors only after temperatures remain consistently above 60°F
• Sowing Depth: 1/4 inch.
• Germination Time: 2–8 weeks depending on warmth.
• Light Requirements: Full sun after establishment.
• Soil Conditions: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.
• Watering: Keep lightly moist during germination; reduce watering when mature.
• Maintenance:
• Protect from frost
• Prune lightly to shape as needed
• Use large containers in cooler climates for winter protection