Also known as Australian Longleaf · Bottle Brush · Crimson Bottlebrush
Melaleuca linearis is a dense, evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its attractive foliage and white bottlebrush-like flowers. It's a hardy and adaptable plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Can tolerate some partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures but can tolerate light frosts. Protect from severe cold.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Melaleuca linearis regularly, especially when young, ensuring the soil dries slightly between waterings.
Mature plants are more drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Prune Melaleuca linearis to shape and maintain desired size. Light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage bushier growth and remove dead or damaged branches.
Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as it may not readily resprout.
Propagate Melaleuca linearis from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining medium.
Maintain high humidity and warmth to encourage root development.
Repot young Melaleuca linearis plants every 1-2 years, or when rootbound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Melaleuca Linearis (Melaleuca linearis)
Where Melaleuca Linearis (Melaleuca linearis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Melaleuca |
| Species | Melaleuca linearis |
Similar in genus Melaleuca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
