Care of the shrub Melaleuca huegelii or Chenille honey-myrtle |
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The genus Melaleuca, family Myrtaceae, comprises 200 species of shrubs and small trees native to Australia. Some species are: Melaleuca huegelii, Melaleuca ericifolia, Melaleuca nesophila, Melaleuca megacephala, Melaleuca styphelioides, Melaleuca alternifolia, Melaleuca armillaris, Melaleuca linariifolia, Melaleuca viridiflora. Common name: Chenille honey-myrtle. This species is native to the south-west coastal areas of Western Australia. They are compact evergreen shrubs that reach 6 meters (19.68 feet) in height. The leaves are light green and look like scales attached to the branches. The interesting flower spikes have small white or cream colored flowers that look like pipe cleaners. They bloom in spring and early summer. They are used to form shrub groups, windbreaks, informal hedges, and as isolated specimens. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. It's important to plant them more than 2 meters (6.56 feet)from pipes and buildings because the roots have aggressive growth. Melaleuca huegelii grows in full sun or semi-shade exposure. They resist occasional frosts. They grow in poor, limestone soils but prefer a well-drained garden substrate with plenty of coarse siliceous sand. Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry; they resist drought well. They do not need fertilizers. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact appearance. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity. They propagate easily from seeds sown in the fall or winter. |
Images of the shrub Melaleuca huegelii or Chenille honey-myrtle |
 Melaleuca huegelii  Melaleuca huegelii |