Melaleuca viridiflora
Red 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.