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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Granite bottlebrush
(Melaleuca elliptica)
Also Known As
Granite bottlebrush, Broad-leaved melaleuca, Elliptical-leaved paperbark, Honey myrtle
About This Plant
Melaleuca elliptica is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The bark is papery and peels off in strips, revealing a white or cream layer underneath. The leaves are narrow and elliptical, around 1-3 cm long and 2-5 mm wide, with a pointed tip and a slightly curved shape. The flowers are white or cream and occur in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a woody capsule, around 2-4 mm in diameter, which splits open to release the seeds.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Can grow up to 10 meters tall (32.8 feet)
Light Requirements
Melaleuca elliptica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well.
Humidity Needs
Melaleuca elliptica prefers low to moderate humidity levels.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize with a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertilizer in the spring and summer months.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune Melaleuca elliptica to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune it to promote more flowering.
Common Pests and Diseases
Melaleuca elliptica is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growth
Watering Schedule
This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate periods of drought. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.
Temperature Range
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 20-40°C (68-104°F). It is frost tender and cannot tolerate temperatures below -2°C (28°F).
Growing Season
The growing season for Melaleuca elliptica is spring and summer.
Growing Difficulty Level
Melaleuca elliptica is relatively easy to grow, as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives enough sunlight.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Melaleuca elliptica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Did You Know?
The leaves of Melaleuca elliptica are often used in traditional medicine to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats. The essential oil extracted from the leaves is also used in aromatherapy and in the production of cosmetics and perfumes.
