Melaleuca armillaris (Bracelet Honey Myrtle)

Fast-growing and free-flowering, Melaleuca armillaris (Bracelet Honey Myrtle) is a large bushy evergreen shrub or small tree with soft, needlelike, glossy light green leaves, 1 in. long (2.5 cm). In spring and summer, the plant is covered with dense spikes of cream to white flowers that resemble bottlebrushes. They attract birds and a range of insects. The furrowed gray bark peels off in strips near the base of the trunk. Tough, Bracelet Honey Myrtle is drought, salt, frost tolerant 20ºF (-6ºC). It can withstand severe coastal exposure and harsh sea winds. Bracelet Honey Myrtle is a popular garden subject, particularly useful as a screen or living fence. Makes a great habitat for birds. Known to damage underground services, it is best to keep this plant at least 20 ft. (6 m) away from any wastewater pipes.

• Grows up to 15-30 ft. tall and wide (450-900 cm). Adds 36 in. per year (90 cm).
• Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soils including sandy, acid, alkaline, and heavy clay. Suited to both wet and dry soils, it tolerates waterlogging.
• Great as a screen or hedge, Mediterranean gardens, or coastal gardens.
• Virtually disease-free and pest-free. Keep an eye out for phytophthora and root rot.
• Pruning improves foliage density. Looks the best if clipped after flowering.
• Propagate from seed and cuttings.
• Native to Southern and Southeastern Australia.