Melaleuca quinquenervia (paper bark tree)

Why Choose This Tree for Your Landscape?

Unique Paper-Like Bark – Features soft, peeling bark that forms thick, fibrous layers, creating an attractive and sculptural appearance.

Ideal for Wet & Flood-Prone Areas – One of the best trees for wet, swampy, or poorly drained soils, thriving in periodically flooded landscapes.

Abundant Creamy-White Flowers – Produces showy bottlebrush-like flowers from late spring to summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and nectar-loving birds.

Resilient & Hardy – Tolerates drought, poor soils, salt spray, and pollution, making it perfect for coastal and urban landscapes.

Excellent Windbreak & Shelter Tree – Grows tall and dense, offering shade, privacy, and protection from strong winds.

Long-Lived & Adaptable – One of Australia’s hardiest native trees, capable of thriving for decades in extreme conditions.

Fire & Erosion Resistant – Recognized for its ability to regenerate after fire events, while its deep root system stabilizes soil and prevents erosion.

How to Grow in Different Soil Types

Melaleuca quinquenervia is highly adaptable and thrives in both wet and dry conditions, making it one of the best choices for variable environments:

Sandy Soil: Requires regular watering initially, but thrives in coastal and floodplain areas.

Clay Soil: Naturally tolerant of compacted and waterlogged soils, making it an excellent choice for clay-heavy sites.

Loamy Soil: Ideal for balanced growth, offering good moisture retention and aeration.

Acidic or Alkaline Soil: Tolerates a wide pH range, making it highly versatile.

Caring for Your Tree

Watering: Water regularly while young; once mature, it requires minimal watering unless in extreme drought.

Fertilizing: Generally does not require fertilization, but a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer can encourage growth in poor soils.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required, but light shaping after flowering can enhance appearance.

Pest & Disease Monitoring: Generally pest-free, but keep an eye out for scale insects or fungal issues in overly damp conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Melaleuca quinquenervia suitable for coastal gardens?
Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and handles wind and sandy soils well, making it ideal for coastal landscapes.

Can it be planted in wet areas?
Absolutely! It thrives in waterlogged soils and is often used for wetland restoration, erosion control, and swampy landscapes.

Does it require regular pruning?
No, it maintains a natural, attractive shape with minimal pruning. However, occasional trimming can help maintain structure and size.

Does it attract wildlife?
Yes, once established, it is highly drought-resistant, though it prefers moist soils.

How long does it live?
Yes, its abundant nectar-rich flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies, and its dense canopy provides shelter for small animals.

This long-lived tree can thrive for decades in suitable conditions.