Contents
Description
Melaleuca Nodosa, commonly known as the prickly-leaved paperbark, is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 8 meters in height. It is native to the eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to New South Wales. The tree’s bark is paper-like and peels away in thin layers, revealing the smooth, cream-colored bark underneath. The leaves are small and prickly, measuring about 1 cm in length, with a pointed tip and a rough texture. The flowers are white or cream-colored and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The tree produces small, woody capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Melaleuca |
Appearance
Melaleuca Nodosa has a unique appearance with its paper-like bark and small, prickly leaves. The tree can grow up to 8 meters in height, and its bark peels away in thin layers. The leaves are small, measuring about 1 cm in length, and have a pointed tip and a rough texture. The flowers are white or cream-colored and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The tree produces small, woody capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Melaleuca Nodosa, it is important to provide the tree with adequate water, fertilization, soil, and sunlight.
Water: The tree requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Melaleuca Nodosa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Melaleuca Nodosa include scale insects and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the tree healthy and free of stress. If an infestation occurs, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the pests.
Common diseases that can affect Melaleuca Nodosa include root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering. If a disease is present, use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Melaleuca Nodosa is native to the eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to New South Wales. The tree prefers to grow in coastal areas and wetlands, but can also grow in drier areas. It is commonly found in swamps, along creeks and rivers, and in salt marshes.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the common name for Melaleuca Nodosa?
A: The common name for Melaleuca Nodosa is prickly-leaved paperbark.
Q: Where is Melaleuca Nodosa native to?
A: Melaleuca Nodosa is native to the eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to New South Wales.
Q: What pests can affect Melaleuca Nodosa?
A: Scale insects and spider mites are common pests that can affect Melaleuca Nodosa.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Melaleuca Nodosa?
A: Melaleuca Nodosa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Melaleuca Alternifolia
- Melaleuca Quinquenervia
- Melaleuca Cajuputi
- Melaleuca Ericifolia
References
- “Melaleuca nodosa.” Australian Plant Image Index. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/images/photo_cd/125/125821.jpg.
- “Melaleuca nodosa.” PlantNet. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Melaleuca~nodosa.
- “Melaleuca nodosa.” Florabank. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Melaleuca_nodosa.htm.
