Prickly paperbark (Melaleuca styphelioides, Trans. Linn. Soc. London 3: 275 (1797))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: Sm.

Bibliography: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 3: 275 (1797)

Year: 1797

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Melaleuca

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Queensland to New South Wales

Description

The Prickly paperbark, scientifically named Melaleuca styphelioides, stands as a remarkable member of the Myrtaceae family. This resilient and versatile species was first described in notable detail in 1797 by the botanist James Edward Smith, and its characteristics were documented in the third volume of Transactions of the Linnean Society of London, page 275.

Native to the southeastern regions of Queensland and extending into New South Wales, the Prickly paperbark thrives in a variety of habitats. It is particularly well-suited to environments ranging from wetlands to more arid conditions, showcasing its adaptability.

This plant is distinguished by its tough, prickly foliage which serves as a protective barrier against herbivores. The leaves are small, rigid, and pointed, capturing the essence of its common name. During its blooming phase, the Prickly paperbark produces an abundance of creamy-white, bottlebrush-like flower spikes. These flowers are not only visually striking but also play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems by providing nectar for birds, insects, and other pollinators.

In addition to its ecological contributions, the Prickly paperbark is also valued in horticulture and landscape design. Its hardy nature makes it an excellent choice for creating windbreaks, providing erosion control, and enhancing biodiversity in garden settings. The tree is often appreciated for its visually appealing, exfoliating bark, which peels away in thin, papery layers, adding textural interest to the landscape.

Overall, Melaleuca styphelioides exemplifies both beauty and practicality, bridging aesthetic appeal with environmental benefits. Whether standing tall in natural wetlands or adorning urban green spaces, the Prickly paperbark continues to thrive and support the diverse ecosystems of Australia.

Common Names

Por: melaleuca
Eng: prickly paperbark, prickly-leaf paperbark, prickly-leaf teatree
En: Prickly paperbark, Prickly-leaf paperbark, Prickly-leaf teatree, Prickly-leaved Tea Tree
Fa: پاپربارک خاردار بزرگ
Pt: Melaleuca

Synonyms

• Melaleuca obliqua (Büse ex de Vriese)
• Leptospermum styphelioides ((Sm.) S.Schauer)
• Myrtoleucodendron styphelioides ((Sm.) Kuntze)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Aug 26, 2022 by Nathalie Potel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 12, 2022 by Cristóvão Cabral (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 19, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 7, 2021 by Renee Behmer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 19, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 19, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 30, 2020 by Catherine Baldwin (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Aug 12, 2022 by Cristóvão Cabral (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 9, 2022 by Harry Carter (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 7, 2021 by Renee Behmer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2021 by lars rogers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 24, 2022 by aria salan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 7, 2021 by Renee Behmer (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5416005)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:598110-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Melaleuca styphelioides Sm.)

Specifications

Growth