![]() |
Melaleuca thymifolia Feather Honey Myrtle |
Melaleucas: Common names are Paperbarks, Honey myrtles. The bark is very distinctive and consists of thin, white cream or brown, paper like layers. Leaves on some species are aromatic when crushed. Many of the shrub like Melaleuca are known by the common name of honey myrtle because of their nectar rich flowers. The flowers can be extremely profuse and come in a range of colors including white, cream, pink, mauve, red, yellow, orange and green. The bark of Melaleuca is in demand for lining hanging baskets for gardens. Paperbarks will tolerate moist sites that are poorly drained but flower production is best in full sun. Occasional use of a slow release fertilizer may be helpful.
Melaleuca thymifolia: Of all the Melaleuca species, I must admit I like this one best. It has beautiful, purple, feathery mauve-violet flowers in spikes on a small shrub to 3'. Delicate, very fragrant, needle like leaves. The flowers are exquisite! Adapts to most all soils, but prefers moist situations and will tolerate drought and frost. Light pruning to maintain compact habit.
| Temperature Rating | USDA Zone 9 |
| Type | Small shrub to about 3' |
| Flower Color | Pink |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Placement | Sun |
| Culture | Moderate to wet soils, minimum 24" annual rainfall |
| Native | Queensland, New South Wales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
Key Benefits
|
Problem Solving Features
|
Friday June 06, 2008 11:55 AM