Melaleuca nesophila (Pink Melaleuca)

Native to Western Australia, Melaleuca nesophila (Pink Melaleuca) is a picturesque, large evergreen shrub or small tree, usually multi-trunked or low branching. Erect or spreading, it develops twisted, heavy branches that sprawl or ascend, giving an interesting twisted character to the plant. Their attractive silver-cream to pale brown papery bark is thick and spongy and peels off in large strips. The small, elliptical, blue-green leaves, 1 in. long (2.5 cm), have a pleasant fragrance when crushed. Showy pompon bottlebrush flowers occur in clusters, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), at the branch tips most of the year. Opening lavender-pink, they fade to white with golden tips as they age. A handsome plant worthy of inclusion in the garden or used as a screen or hedge. Tolerant of desert heat, drought and coastal condition, Pink Melaleuca attracts nectar feeding birds and bees into the garden. Quite versatile, it is also useful on banks and slopes. Great for cutting too.

• Grows up to 15-30 ft. tall and wide (450-900 cm). Adds 36 in. per year (90 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist to dry, well-drained soils. Almost any garden soil is suitable as long as it is well-drained. Responds well to regular moisture, but grows well with low amounts of supplemental moisture. Drought, salt, wind tolerant.
• Perfect as a specimen or accent plant, screening, foundation plantings, banks and slopes or as a background plant. Great in Mediterranean gardens and coastal gardens.
• Can be lightly pruned to shape or to expose its attractive twisted branches.
• Generally pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for phytophthora and root rot.
• Native to Western Australia.