Melaleuca viridifloraRed Paperbark

The Melaleuca viridiflora, commonly known as the Red Paperbark, is a medium to tall evergreen tree recognized 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 7–10 meters tall, the Red Paperbark provides year-round interest with its striking flowers and textured bark.

Specifications:

• Height: 7–10 meters
• Width: 4–6 meters
• Native to: Northern Australia
• Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rate: Moderate

Conditions:

• Soil: Adapts to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils; tolerates waterlogged conditions
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Moderate to high; thrives in moist or wet areas but tolerates occasional dryness
• Climate: Tropical and subtropical; handles temperate regions with mild frosts

Additional Features:

• Flowers: Vibrant red or pink bottlebrush-like blooms; highly ornamental and appear seasonally
• Bark: Papery, peeling bark with a unique texture that adds year-round visual interest
• Form: Upright, spreading canopy providing ample shade
• Uses: Ideal for windbreaks, screening, wetland restoration, or feature planting
• Spacing: Plant 4–6 meters apart for standalone trees or closer for windbreaks
• Low Maintenance: Minimal pruning required; tolerates poor soils and neglect
• Pest Resistance: Resilient to most pests; monitor for psyllids in stressed trees
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established; thrives in both wet and dry conditions
• Wildlife Attraction: Flowers attract birds, bees, and other pollinators
• Frost Tolerance: Handles light frost; suitable for frost-free or mild winter areas
• Seasonal Appeal: Year-round bark interest with vibrant seasonal blooms
• Versatility: Complements native, formal, and contemporary garden styles

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