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Description
Melaleuca Orbifolia, also known as Round Leaf Tea Tree, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to Western Australia, and its leaves are traditionally used for medicinal purposes by the indigenous people of the region. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Melaleuca |
Appearance
Melaleuca Orbifolia grows up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide. It has a dense, bushy habit and a round shape. The leaves are small, about 1 cm in diameter, and have a gray-green color. The bark is thin and papery, and the branches are woody and gray. The flowers are small and white, and they are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
Melaleuca Orbifolia is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Melaleuca Orbifolia prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Melaleuca Orbifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melaleuca Orbifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Scale insects: Scale insects can infest the leaves and branches of Melaleuca Orbifolia. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Mites: Mites can also infest the leaves and branches of Melaleuca Orbifolia. Use a miticide to control them.
- Root rot: Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.
Habitat
Melaleuca Orbifolia is native to Western Australia, where it grows in sandy soils in coastal areas. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate salt spray and wind. It is commonly found in coastal gardens and as a hedge or screen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Melaleuca Orbifolia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Melaleuca Orbifolia can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Melaleuca Orbifolia?
A: Fertilize Melaleuca Orbifolia once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.
Q: Can I prune Melaleuca Orbifolia?
A: Yes, you can prune Melaleuca Orbifolia to maintain its shape and size. Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Is Melaleuca Orbifolia toxic to pets?
A: Melaleuca Orbifolia is not known to be toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Melaleuca Alternifolia
- Melaleuca Armillaris
- Melaleuca Cajuputi
- Melaleuca Ericifolia
- Melaleuca Nesophila
References
- “Melaleuca Orbifolia.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed 20 September 2021. https://www.anpsa.org.au/m-orb.html.
- “Melaleuca Orbifolia.” Gardening Australia. Accessed 20 September 2021. https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/melaleuca-orbifolia/9428354.
- “Melaleuca Orbifolia – Round-leaf Tea Tree.” Plant Care Guide. Accessed 20 September 2021. https://plantcareguide.com/melaleuca-orbifolia-round-leaf-tea-tree/.
