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Description
Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica, commonly known as the Granite Honey Myrtle, is a native Australian shrub that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and has a spread of around 2 meters. The plant features grey-green leaves that produce small white flowers, which bloom from late winter to early spring. The foliage of the shrub is aromatic and gives off a pleasant scent when crushed.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Myrtales |
Family | Myrtaceae |
Genus | Melaleuca |
Appearance
The Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica has an upright and dense growth habit, with a bark that is grey and flaky. The shrub produces narrow, pointed leaves that are around 20mm long and 2mm wide. The leaves are grey-green in color and have a woolly texture on the underside. The plant also produces small, white flowers that are around 8mm in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the end of branches. The flowers bloom from late winter to early spring and are followed by small, woody capsules that contain the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist. Watering should be done regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant.Fertilization: Fertilization should be done during the growing season using a slow-release fertilizer that is low in phosphorus.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.Sunlight: The Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica is susceptible to root rot, particularly in poorly drained soil. The plant is also vulnerable to leaf spot and fungal diseases. Pests that commonly affect the plant include scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Habitat
The Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica is native to Western Australia and is found growing in sandy or gravelly soils in heathlands and woodlands. The plant is well adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica suitable for growing in pots?
A: While the plant can be grown in pots, it prefers to be planted in the ground where it can grow to its full potential.Q: Can the Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the plant is well adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought.Q: How often should the Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica be pruned?
A: Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering, and only if necessary to maintain the plant’s shape.Q: Can the Melaleuca Granitica Subsp. Granitica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Melaleuca Alternifolia
- Melaleuca Armillaris
- Melaleuca Nervosa
- Melaleuca Thymifolia
References
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/melaleuca-granitica-subsp-granitica-granite-honey-myrtle/
- https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/melaleuca-granitica-subsp-granitica.html
- https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Granite%20Honey%20Myrtle.html