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Melaleuca quinquenervia

Paperbark Tree, Cajeput Tree

Plant photo of: Melaleuca quinquenervia
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Steve Jacobs/George

 

Description

Paperbark or Cajeput (Melaleuca quinquenervia) is an Australian native that is known for its beautiful, papery bark that unravels in sheets on the trunk. The tree can reach 40’ tall and 15’-25’ wide. It is often grown as a multi-trunk tree, and it makes a beautiful specimen tree in a wide range of garden styles. It is unparticular about its soil, and it can thrive in a wide range of moisture conditions. If this tree is selected for a small- to medium-sized garden, measures must be taken to keep topical roots from forming. Drip irrigation or deep, infrequent watering is best. If this tree is planted near an area with overhead sprinklers, root barriers may be necessary to keep roots away from the wetter parts of the garden. Once the tree reaches a size where it could benefit from some shaping, it is best to have a licensed arborist perform the work. This tree should be planted at least eight feet away from any hardscape areas, 15 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about five feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

25-40', 40-60'

Flower Color

Pink, Purple, Yellow

Flower Season

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Light Green

Bark Color

Tan, White

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Season

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Leaf Season

Evergreen

Sun

Full

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

Soil Condition

Average, Poor

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Allergenic, Messy

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

Fall Color, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Park

Special Uses

Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Naturalizing, Medicinal

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Water Saving Tip:

Weather changes - so should your watering schedule. Be sure to make seasonal watering adjustments at a minimum.