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Description
Melaleuca Bracteata, commonly known as Black Tea Tree, is an Australian native plant belonging to the Myrtaceae family. This evergreen shrub grows up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with a compact and bushy habit. It has thin, dark green leaves that are 1-2 inches long and 0.1-0.2 inches wide. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer months, followed by woody capsules containing numerous small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Melaleuca |
Appearance
Melaleuca Bracteata has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any landscape. Its thin, dark green leaves provide a great contrast to the white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant has a compact and bushy habit, and it can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. The bark of the plant is thin and papery, and it can be easily peeled off in strips. The woody capsules that follow the flowers are small and round, and they contain numerous small seeds that can be easily propagated.
Care Guide
Melaleuca Bracteata is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this Australian native plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with sulfur or peat moss.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as profusely.- Hardiness Zones: Melaleuca Bracteata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown in containers in colder climates and brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melaleuca Bracteata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.- Scale insects: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control scale insects.
Habitat
Melaleuca Bracteata is native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia, where it grows in sandy soils and tolerates salt spray. The plant can be used in coastal gardens or as a hedge or screen plant. It is also suitable for xeriscaping, as it can tolerate drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Melaleuca Bracteata in a container?
A: Yes, Melaleuca Bracteata can be grown in containers in colder climates and brought indoors during the winter.
Q: How often should I fertilize Melaleuca Bracteata?
A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Is Melaleuca Bracteata susceptible to any diseases?
A: Melaleuca Bracteata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet.
Q: Can Melaleuca Bracteata tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Melaleuca Bracteata is suitable for xeriscaping, as it can tolerate drought once established.
Related Plants
– Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree)- Melaleuca Ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark)- Melaleuca Quinquenervia (Broad-Leaved Paperbark)- Melaleuca Nesophila (Showy Honey-Myrtle)
References
– “Melaleuca Bracteata.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Myrtaceae/Melaleuca+bracteata/1266.- “Melaleuca Bracteata.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2691.
