Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) - Evergreen Trees Direct

Melaleuca linariifolia - Evergreen Trees Direct

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

$250.00

Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Size: 40cm/45L

40cm/45L 75L 100L 200L

Current Stock Height Guides

40cm/45L: 1.3m – 1.6m Approx.
75L: Enquire within for height guide information.
100L: Enquire within for height guide information.
200L: Enquire within for height guide information.

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you mustconfirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 6m to 10m (approx.)

Mature Width: 4m to 6m

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is expected to grow 30cm to 60cm (moderate) per year (approx.).

Root Ball Dimensions

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

Trade

We supply advanced trees to landscapers, developers, architects, and councils Australia-wide. Trade clients receive fast quotes, expert advice, and access to premium stock with reliable freight.

Register or learn more ›

Shipping

Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the pallet space your order occupies in the truck and your delivery location.

There is no charge to calculate your freight.

Contact

Have a question or a list to send through to us?

Email: sales@evergreentrees.com.au

Phone: (03) 7042 3318

About Your New Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Melaleuca linariifolia, sold as Snow in Summer, is an evergreen Australian native with fine linear foliage and a neat rounded crown. In summer the whole canopy disappears under fluffy white flowers, which is where the name comes from. Older stems develop soft white papery bark that peels away in sheets.

In garden use it holds around 6 to 10 metres tall and 4 to 6 metres wide, growing 30 to 60 centimetres a year, though a tree in deep soil with plenty of water will go taller over time. Full sun to part shade suits it, and it takes wet ground, drought once established and light to moderate frost.

It works as a feature in front gardens, as an informal screen at 1 to 1.5 metres apart, and in swales and stormwater basins where the soil stays damp. Bees and honeyeaters use the flowers heavily. The white summer display arrives when very little else in an Australian garden is out.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Snow in Summer

What is Snow in Summer?

Snow in Summer is the common name for Melaleuca linariifolia, an evergreen Australian native shrub or small tree. It has fine linear willow like foliage, a rounded symmetrical crown and soft white papery bark on older stems. In summer it produces dense fluffy white flowers over the whole canopy, hence the name.

How big does Snow in Summer grow?

In garden and landscape use it holds around 6 to 10 metres tall and 4 to 6 metres wide, which is the size most planting plans are built around. In deep, moist soil and left completely unpruned it can grow taller over many years, so allow room or plan on a light annual trim.

When does it flower?

Flowering is in summer, mainly November through January, and it is heavy enough to cover the foliage completely. The flowers are white and fluffy, held in dense spikes along the outer growth. The display lasts several weeks, then the spent flowers dry off and small woody capsules form along the stems.

Does it need sun or shade?

Full sun gives the densest crown and the heaviest flowering. It grows happily in part shade, particularly morning shade with afternoon sun, but flowering will be lighter and the habit more open. It is not a plant for deep shade. Sheltered or exposed sites both work, since the fine foliage sheds wind easily.

Does it have invasive roots?

The roots are not aggressive in the way a willow or a fig is, but the species naturally grows along creek lines and will seek out moisture. Keep it 3 to 4 metres clear of drainage lines, old clay pipes and slab edges. In open garden beds and street verges it causes no real trouble.

Will it grow in wet or poorly drained soil?

Yes, better than most trees of its size. It occurs naturally on creek flats and damp ground and tolerates periods of waterlogging, which is why it is used in swales, rain gardens and stormwater basins. It is equally happy on drier ground once established, so it suits sites that swing between the two.

How do I prune and care for Snow in Summer?

Prune straight after the summer flowering, tipping the outer growth to keep the crown dense and compact. Avoid cutting into bare old wood on a mature plant. Water regularly through the first summer, then only in long dry spells. Feed with a low phosphorus native fertiliser in spring if growth looks tired.

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

Enriched Planting Mix is a certified organic blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent, bagged in 30L. It is built to be dug through existing garden soil at planting time rather than used on its own, and the gypsum is what sets it apart from a plain compost.

Gypsum helps break up heavy clay so water and roots can move through it, while the compost and manure return organic matter and nutrient to tired ground. The coarse bark holds structure and keeps air around the root zone, and the wetting agent keeps moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering.

Use it when planting trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and exotic garden plants, particularly into clay. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and 7 centimetres deeper, then mix roughly one third planting mix through the excavated soil. Spread 7 centimetres of that improved soil in the base before setting the plant in.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Enriched Planting Mix

What is Enriched Planting Mix made from?

It is a blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, gypsum, composted coarse bark and a wetting agent. Each part has a job. The compost and manure supply organic matter and nutrient, the gypsum works on clay structure, the bark keeps air around the roots and the wetting agent holds moisture in the soil.

What plants is it suitable for?

It suits exotic garden plants, including roses, ornamental and deciduous trees, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials, and it earns its keep most on heavy clay sites. It is a planting mix rather than a potting mix, so its job is improving soil at planting time. Phosphorus sensitive natives are the one clear exception.

Is it safe for natives?

No, not for the phosphorus sensitive ones. The composted animal manure in this blend lifts phosphorus well above what Proteaceae such as Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea and Protea will tolerate, and the result can be leaf burn, dieback and plant death. Use the Native Potting Mix for those species, or plant them into unimproved local soil.

Is it certified organic?

Yes. It is a certified organic product with no chemical additives, which is why the manure and compost in it are fully composted rather than raw. That makes it sound around fruit trees and vegetable beds, and it means you are adding genuine organic matter to your soil rather than a synthetic conditioner.

How much do I need?

Work on roughly one third planting mix to two thirds of the soil you dug out of the hole. For a shrub out of a 200 millimetre pot that is only a few litres. An advanced tree going into a large hole will take considerably more. Judge the quantity by the volume of the hole rather than the size of the plant.

Can I use it in pots?

It is not a potting mix and should not be used on its own in a container. The blend is designed to be diluted through garden soil, and used straight in a pot it holds too much water and settles badly. For containers, reach for a premium potting mix, or the native mix if you are potting natives.

Does it need to be watered in?

Yes. Water the plant well several hours before you plant it, then water thoroughly again once the hole is backfilled and the soil firmed down. That first deep watering settles the improved soil around the root ball and drives out air pockets. Keep the water up over the first few months while the roots establish.

View full details

Type: Garden Supplies

Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

Type: Structural Foliage

Buxus japonica Japanese Box Topiary Balls

From $300.00

Type: Structural Foliage

Buxus sempervirens English Box Topiary Balls

From $200.00

Type: Hedging and Screening Trees

Rhaphiolepis indica 'Snow Maiden'

From $40.00

Type: Hedging and Screening Trees

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen'

From $145.00

Type: Hedging and Screening Trees

Syzygium paniculatum 'Backyard Bliss' Lilly Pilly

From $150.00

Type: Hedging and Screening Trees

Laurus nobilis 'Miles Choice' Bay Tree

From $100.00

Uses in my Garden

Feature Tree
Screening or Privacy
Street Tree
Council or Civic Landscapes
Windbreak

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) works in an:

Australian Native Garden – celebrates local plants with natural character.
Wildlife Garden – planting to attract birds, bees, and pollinators.
Coastal Garden – relaxed, seaside feel with hardy, textural plants.
Woodland Garden – layered, naturalistic design under dappled light.
Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Is Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) Evergreen or Deciduous?

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is an Evergreen (foliage year round) Tree

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 6m to 10m (approx.)

Mature Width: 4m to 6m

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is expected to grow 30cm to 60cm (moderate) per year (approx.).

Growth Rate of Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is expected to grow 30cm to 60cm (moderate) per year (approx.).

They are considered to have a:

Medium Growth Rate

Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Is Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) frost tolerant?

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

Does Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) Flower?

Melaleuca linariifolia produces masses of bright white, fluffy bottlebrush-style blooms from late spring into early summer. The flowers cluster densely along the stems, creating a spectacular “snowfall” effect that completely transforms the tree during its peak display.

Does Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) flower?

Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

Summer

Flower Type:

Fluffy

Flower Colour:

White

Is Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) an Australian Native Tree?

Yes

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is Native to Eastern Australia, particularly New South Wales and Queensland, where it grows naturally in swampy areas, creek lines, and moist soils.

What is the Wildlife Value of Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) ?

As a young plant it requires regular watering, but once established Snow in Summer develops excellent drought tolerance. Naturally resilient, it performs strongly in hot, dry, windy and coastal environments and maintains healthy evergreen growth with only occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.

How much Sunlight does Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) need?

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) will thrive best in:

Full Sun

Preferred Soil?

Melaleuca linariifolia performs best in well-drained sandy or loam soils and tolerates slightly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions. It adapts well to coastal and poorer soils but may struggle in heavy clay or waterlogged sites unless improved with coarse sand and organic matter to enhance drainage. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then shift to deep, infrequent watering as it matures to support drought resilience, dense canopy formation and abundant seasonal flowering.

Is Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) Drought Tolerant?

Is Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) Drought tolerant?

As a young plant it requires regular watering, but once established Snow in Summer develops excellent drought tolerance. Naturally resilient, it performs strongly in hot, dry, windy and coastal environments and maintains healthy evergreen growth with only occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.

youtube

How To Plant Your Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Site: Choose a well-drained position in full sun to part shade with room for the canopy to develop.

Soil preparation: Enrich the planting area with quality compost and aged manure for a strong establishment phase.

Hole: Dig twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.

Planting: Position level with the surrounding soil, backfill gently, firm in, then water deeply to settle the roots.

Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Hedging and screening: 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen, or 80 centimetres apart for a tighter formal hedge.

Avenue planting: 3 metres apart for a uniform soft-textured avenue.

Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) is expected to grow 30cm to 60cm (moderate) per year (approx.).

Medium Growth Rate

Long Term Care For Your Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer)

Watering: Water deeply twice weekly through the first 12 months. Once established, this is drought tolerant and only needs a deep soak during extended dry periods.

Mulching: Apply a 5 to 7 centimetre layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it 5 centimetres clear of the trunk.

Pruning: Tip prune in late winter and again in summer to build dense growth. For a formal hedge, light shaping two to three times a year keeps lines crisp.

Fertilising: Apply a slow-release native blend in early spring and again in autumn. Avoid high-phosphorus formulations as a precaution.

Pest and disease: Hardy against most pests and diseases. Occasional inspection in warm humid conditions is all that's needed.

Planting Your Melaleuca linariifolia (Snow in Summer) in Different Soil

Melaleuca linariifolia performs best in well-drained sandy loam or loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adaptable to a wide range of soils when drainage is improved with organic matter.

Sandy soil: Free-draining and ideal. Mulch well to maintain consistent moisture.

Clay soil: Improve drainage with gypsum and organic compost before planting.

Loam: The preferred soil for steady root development and consistent growth.

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral preferred. Mulch with composted leaf litter to maintain levels naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'Snow in Summer' Melaleuca suitable for attracting wildlife?
Yes, it attracts birds and beneficial insects, making it a great choice for a wildlife-friendly garden.

Can it thrive in both full sun and partial shade?
Absolutely, it is adaptable to various light conditions, making it versatile for different garden areas.

Is it prone to any particular pests or diseases?
Snow in Summer is generally hardy and resistant to common garden issues.

Does it require heavy pruning to maintain its form?
No, occasional pruning for shape and removing dead growth is sufficient.