Melaleuca leucadendra aka Cajaput Tree

Melaleuca leucadendra is a large evergreen tree in the myrtle family. Its common names include paperbark, cajeput tree, and weeping tea tree. Kew places its native range from Maluku to northern Australia. It grows in the lowland tropics and subtropics. Wild trees favour river flats, coastal plains, and swamps that flood with the seasons.

In gardens, reported size reaches about 98 feet [30 metres] tall. The crown can spread to 66 feet [20 metres] across. A broader height account gives 72–141 feet [22–43 metres]. These larger figures show its scope beyond the listed garden size. The trunk is straight and round in cross-section. It can reach nearly 5 feet [1.5 metres] across. Thick, white bark forms papery layers around the trunk. The broad, flat leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Fine hairs cover their surfaces. The tree keeps its leaves through the year.

The flowers are white or cream, and bees visit them. Plants For A Future also lists birds as pollinators. The fruit takes the form of a woody capsule. Its seeds are very small. Sources describe growth as moderately fast to fast. The tree can survive forest fires and draws wildlife. Its great size suits parks and large gardens. Listed landscape uses also include streets and public open spaces.

Give this tree full sun and soil that holds moisture. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay, including poor soils. It prefers moist to wet ground and tolerates brief floods. Strong currents do not rule out a site. Once established, it can also withstand drought. Its preferred soil pH lies between 6 and 7. It tolerates a wider range, from 5.5 to 8.5. It also tolerates salt in the soil. Sources disagree about its tolerance of salt-laden coastal winds. It is frost tender, with listed USDA zones of 10–12.

Leaves and fruit have recorded use in tea. Oil from the tree also serves as a food flavouring. Sources report no known hazards, but do not establish comprehensive safety. The leaf oil has a strong scent like camphor. Recorded medicinal uses include treatment of coughs, aches, and skin complaints. These are reports of use, not proof of benefit. The oil also goes into soaps, perfumes, and insect repellents. The hard, heavy wood lasts in damp ground. Uses include boats, posts, and railway ties.