Paperbark teatree (Melaleuca ericifolia, Trans. Linn. Soc. London 3: 276 (1797))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: Sm.

Bibliography: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 3: 276 (1797)

Year: 1797

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Melaleuca

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Australia

Description

The Paperbark teatree, scientifically known as Melaleuca ericifolia, is a remarkable plant species that finds its origins in southeastern Australia. First described in the Transactions of the Linnean Society of London in 1797 by Smith, this plant is a member of the Myrtaceae family, which includes a diverse array of shrubs and trees known for their aromatic leaves and essential oils. Melaleuca ericifolia has carved out a niche for itself in the wetland and coastal regions where it thrives.

Characterized by its distinctive, flaky, paper-like bark, the Paperbark teatree can grow up to 8 meters in height. This hardy plant is noted for its adaptability in a range of soil types, though it shows a preference for water-logged or swampy conditions. Its resilience in such environments makes it an invaluable species for wetland restoration projects and erosion control.

The foliage of Melaleuca ericifolia is evergreen, with narrow, linear leaves that resemble those of the heath plant, reflecting the species epithet “ericifolia.” During its blooming period, which typically occurs in spring, the plant produces an abundance of small, creamy-white flowers arranged in dense, bottlebrush-like spikes. These flowers not only enhance its ornamental value but also serve as an essential nectar source for various pollinators, including bees, contributing to the biodiversity of its native habitat.

In addition to its ecological importance, the Paperbark teatree holds cultural significance for Indigenous Australian communities, who have utilized various parts of the plant for medicinal purposes and as building materials for centuries. Its bark has been used to create shelters and canoes, while its leaves have been employed in traditional healing practices.

Today, Melaleuca ericifolia is appreciated not just for its environmental and cultural contributions but also for its potential in landscaping and horticulture. Its robust nature and ability to flourish in challenging conditions make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscape architects aiming to create sustainable and low-maintenance green spaces.

In conclusion, the Paperbark teatree stands out as a versatile and resilient plant, deeply rooted in the ecological tapestry of southeastern Australia. Its historical, cultural, and ecological significance continues to be recognized and valued by botanists, environmentalists, and communities alike.

Common Names

Por: melaleuca
Eng: paperbark teatree, swamp paperbark, swamp teatree
En: Paperbark teatree, Swamp paperbark, Swamp teatree
Ar: بلقاء خلنجية الأوراق
Pt: Melaleuca

Synonyms

• Melaleuca gunniana var. capitata (Miq.)
• Myrtoleucodendron ericifolium ((Sm.) Kuntze)
• Cajuputi ericifolia ((Sm.) A.Lyons)
• Melaleuca heliophila (F.Muell. ex Miq.)
• Melaleuca ternifolia (F.Muell. ex Miq.)
• Melaleuca gunniana (S.Schauer)
• Melaleuca axillaris (Steud.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Dec 29, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 29, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 9, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 19, 2021 by Mar Ocêana do (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 17, 2020 by Georg Dean (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Pachamama (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 9, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 18, 2021 by Astro Boy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Mar 3, 2020 by Georg Dean (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 15, 2020 by Georg Dean (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 29, 2020 by Georg Dean (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 9, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Apr 3, 2021 by Mo Khimji (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2022 by Vale Viola (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Teresa V. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Riccardo (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5415723)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:597937-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Melaleuca ericifolia Sm.)

Specifications

Growth