Melaleuca quinquenervia
White Paperbark Melaleuca
The Melaleuca quinquenervia, or White Paperbark Melaleuca, is a striking evergreen tree known for its peeling, papery white bark and fluffy, cream-coloured flowers that bloom in spring and summer. Growing up to 15 metres, this hardy native tree features fine, grey-green foliage and a dense canopy, making it ideal for shade, windbreaks, or wetland revegetation projects.
Specifications
- Height: 10 to 15 metres
- Width: 5 to 10 metres
- Native to: Eastern Australia and Papua New Guinea
- Foliage: Fine, grey-green leaves; evergreen
- Growth rate: Moderate to fast
Conditions
- Soil: Prefers well-drained to waterlogged soils; thrives in sandy, loamy, and clay types
- Light: Full sun
- Water: Low to moderate; tolerates waterlogged conditions
- Climate: Thrives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions
Additional Features
- Flowers: Cream-coloured, fluffy bottlebrush-like blooms in spring and summer
- Bark: Distinctive white, peeling bark adds year-round texture and interest
- Form: Upright growth with a dense, spreading canopy
- Uses: Ideal for shade trees, windbreaks, wetland planting, and ornamental landscapes
- Spacing: Plant 5 to 10 metres apart for individual impact or group planting
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; prune lightly to shape if desired
- Pest Resistance: Resilient to pests and diseases
- Drought Tolerance: High; suitable for waterwise gardens once established
- Frost Tolerance: Hardy to light frost
- Wildlife Attraction: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds
- Seasonal Appeal: Evergreen foliage, textured bark, and seasonal blooms add year-round interest
- Versatility: Complements native, coastal, and wetland garden designs
The White Paperbark Melaleuca is a resilient and visually striking tree, offering ecological benefits and ornamental appeal. Its adaptability and unique bark make it a standout feature in gardens and landscapes.
Project pedigree: This species has stood in Ornatec's drought, salt and frost tolerance palette since the 1990s. Read the tolerance catalogue record.