scented paperbark

Also known as: Australian swamp tea tree; Tasmanian swamp tea tree

An evergreen shrub or tree, to 5m in its native Australia, with small, pointed leaves arranged in neat ranks along the stems. In summer it produces small, fragrant creamy-white flowers, held in dense spikes that resemble a bottle-brush; these are followed by small, woody, cup-shaped fruits

Scientific classification

Species: scented paperbark (Melaleuca squarrosa)
Genus: Melaleuca
Family: Myrtaceae

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Toxicity: Shrubs · Trees
Plant type: 1.5-2.5 metres
Height: 1-1.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

scented paperbark pictures

Distribution of scented paperbark

Distribution map

Australia

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of scented paperbark

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scented paperbark care guide

Moderate watering, withstand brief dry spells once root system matures
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate watering, withstand brief dry spells once root system matures

Fertilizing

Light native shrub fertilizer once per month in spring growing window

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed in spring, or root semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer

Growing

Under glass, grow in loam-based potting compost with added leaf mould, in full light with shade from hot sun. Water moderately while in growth and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. Outdoors grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny position with the shelter of a warm wall

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