Melaleuca alternifolia aka Narrow Leaf Paperbark

Taxonomy

Genus Melaleuca Family Myrtaceae Order Myrtales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree, is a species of tree or tall shrub in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, that is native to Australia. It grows along streams and on swampy flats in southeast Queensland and the north coast and adjacent ranges of New South Wales, often dominating where it occurs. This evergreen plant is considered easy to grow outdoors in USDA zones 9 through 11, but can also be grown indoors with extra effort. Tea trees typically produce wispy white blooms in the spring and summer, but may not do so when grown indoors. The plants rely on insect pollinators for pollination and require direct light, being less than a foot from a window, to thrive. It is important to note that raw tea tree oil is toxic and the plant should be kept out of the reach of children.

Common names

Narrow Leaf Paperbark, Tea Tree

How to care for Narrow Leaf Paperbark

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Narrow Leaf Paperbark, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Narrow Leaf Paperbark should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Narrow Leaf Paperbark loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Narrow Leaf Paperbark prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Region of origin

Narrow Leaf Paperbark’s native range is Australia - New South Wales, Queensland.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Melaleuca Genus

Melaleuca uncinata Broom Honey Myrtle

Melaleuca squarrosa Melaleuca Squarrosa

Melaleuca hypericifolia Red Honey Myrtle

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Melaleuca squamea Swamp Honey Myrtle

Melaleuca linariifolia Cajeput Tree

Melaleuca armillaris Bracelet Honey Myrtle

Melaleuca nesophila Mauve Honey Myrtle

Melaleuca leucadendra Cajaput Tree

Melaleuca lanceolata Rottnest Island Teatree