Melaleuca tree is a plant that is native to Australia and it is also known as the paperbark tree. The tree has white flowers and it grows to a height of 30 meters. The tree is used for its timber and for its oil. The oil is used in aromatherapy and it is also used in cosmetics.
Related plant:
Melaleuca Quinquenervia
About soil condition, melaleuca tree grow best in well-drained soils, such as those found near creeks or on slopes. They are not particular about soil type but prefer a neutral to slightly acidic pH. They also do not tolerate wet feet and will quickly succumb to root rot if their roots are waterlogged.
Not too different with other plants, the melaleuca tree needs sun to grow. However, it is not as picky as some plants when it comes to how much sun it needs. The tree can grow in both full sun and partial sun.
The temperature condition that is most conducive to the growth of the melaleuca tree is a warm climate. This tree does best in an environment where the temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too cold, the tree will not be able to grow properly. If the temperature gets too hot, the tree will not be able to produce the necessary amount of leaves and branches.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40-60%. The best way to provide the Melaleuca tree with the necessary humidity is by grouping several plants together and by using a humidifier. Misting the leaves on a regular basis will also help to provide the tree with the humidity it needs. If the air in your home is too dry, the leaves of the Melaleuca tree will begin to turn brown and drop off.
Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant isadaptable to many different types however they do prefer phosphate andnitrogen-rich fertilizers. It is generally recommended to fertilize inthe early spring and again in late summer or early fall. As for watering,these plants prefer to have moist soil but they will tolerate periods ofdrought. It is best to water deeply and less frequently as opposed tolight, frequent watering. Lastly, when it comes to the root system,these plants have a taproot system which means they have a deep, singlemain root with smaller lateral roots branching off to the sides. Thismakes them quite drought tolerant as their roots can reach down deep intoavailable water reserves.
Pruning a melaleuca tree is important to maintain its growth and prevent it from becoming too large. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To prune a melaleuca tree, start by removing any dead or diseased branches. Cut back any branches that are growing inwards towards the trunk of the tree. Next, cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against other branches. Finally, cut back any branches that are longer than the others. Pruning a melaleuca tree may seem like a lot of work, but it is important to do it regularly to maintain its health and prevent it from becoming too large.
Propagation of melaleuca trees is relatively easy and can be done through rooting cuttings or by seed. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and placed in moist, well-drained soil. Melaleuca seeds can be collected from the cones of the tree and sown in a seed bed.
Usually, the plant growth rate research has been conducted in Australia, where the species is native. A 2008 study published in the journal "Forest Ecology and Management" found that the trees grew an average of 0.79 meters (2.6 feet) per year in an open Eucalyptus forest. In a more closed-canopy environment, the growth rate was lower, at 0.47 meters (1.5 feet) per year.
Common problems for this kind of plant are caterpillars, scale, sooty mould and root rot. To prevent caterpillars, regularly check the trunk and branches for signs of infestation and remove any caterpillars you find. To prevent scale, regularly spray the trunk and branches with an insecticide. To prevent sooty mould, keep the area around the tree clean and free of debris. If root rot is a problem, improve drainage around the tree and remove any dead or dying roots.
Source:
Melaleuca citrina - North Carolina State University
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: MelaleucaUC IPM - ucanr.edu
Melaleuca viminalis 'Red Cascade' - North Carolina State University
