Commonly known as the ‘Swamp Paperbark’, Melaleuca ericifolia is large shrub to small tree. Generally reaching 4 – 6m however sometimes much taller, this is a hardy tree used as a screening plant and excellent to re vegetation.
Height and growth habit will be determined by conditions, smaller growing and less dense in dry areas, while taller and denser in in damp areas. Found widely from New South Wales through Victoria to Tasmania.
This is a clump forming plant that will send up shoots from the roots, especially in rich moist soils. In drier soils it tend to be less likely to shoot.
Masses of creamy white flowers from spring to early summer followed by woody seed pods. In good conditions Melaleuca ericifolia will form a dense thicket with a few low growing under story plants present.
Landscaping Uses
Making an excellent small windbreak tree Melaleuca ericifolia is often planted around the car parks in commercial developments. Also used in revegetation projects, to attract native birds to the garden and as a habitat for native animals. The essential oil extracted is sold as ‘Rosalina Oil’.
Care
Melaleuca ericifolia is a very hardy small tree that grows well in a range of soils and is also frost tolerant.
- Grows well in both semi dry and damp soil.
- Full sun to part shade.
- Frost tolerant.
- Thrives in harsh coastal conditions.
- Useful as a screen, roadside plantings and as a habitat plant.