Melaleuca viridifloraRed Paperbark

The Melaleuca viridiflora, commonly known as the Red Paperbark, is a medium to tall evergreen tree recognised for its distinctive papery, peeling bark and vibrant red or pink bottlebrush-like flowers. Native to northern Australia, this hardy tree thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardens, wetlands, or revegetation projects. Growing up to 7 to 10 metres tall, the Red Paperbark provides year-round interest with its striking flowers and textured bark.

Specifications

• Height7 to 10 metres
• Width4 to 6 metres
• Native toNorthern Australia
• FoliageNarrow, lance-shaped green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilAdapts to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils; tolerates waterlogged conditions
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterModerate to high; thrives in moist or wet areas but tolerates occasional dryness
• ClimateTropical and subtropical; handles temperate regions with mild frosts

Additional Features

• FlowersVibrant red or pink bottlebrush-like blooms; highly ornamental and appear seasonally
• BarkPapery, peeling bark with a unique texture that adds year-round visual interest
• FormUpright, spreading canopy providing ample shade
• UsesIdeal for windbreaks, screening, wetland restoration, or feature planting
• SpacingPlant 4 to 6 metres apart for standalone trees or closer for windbreaks
• Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning required; tolerates poor soils and neglect
• Pest ResistanceResilient to most pests; monitor for psyllids in stressed trees
• Drought ToleranceModerate once established; thrives in both wet and dry conditions
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract birds, bees, and other pollinators
• Frost ToleranceHandles light frost; suitable for frost-free or mild winter areas
• Seasonal AppealYear-round bark interest with vibrant seasonal blooms
• VersatilityComplements native, formal, and contemporary garden styles

The Red Paperbark is a resilient and beautiful tree, perfect for adding texture, colour, and ecological value to gardens, landscapes, and restoration projects. Its striking bark and vibrant flowers make it a standout feature in any setting.

Project pedigree: This species has stood in Ornatec's drought, salt and frost tolerance palette since the 1990s. Read the tolerance catalogue record.