Also known as Belbowrie · Blake Paperbark · Bottle Brush Tree
Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia) is an evergreen tree native to Australia and New Caledonia, known for its papery bark and aromatic leaves used in traditional medicine.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Moderate to Low
50% intensity
Water regularly until established, then allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once mature. Reduce in winter.
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures. Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Protect from frost when young.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly once in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Resilient in poor soils.
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 regularly during establishment, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, Niaouli is drought-tolerant. Reduce watering in winter.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Overwatering is more detrimental than underwatering for this hardy species.
Pruning is mainly for shaping and removing dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain desired size and form.
Avoid heavy pruning, especially in the first few years, to allow the plant to establish a strong structure. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches.
Niaouli can be propagated by seeds, which germinate readily when sown in well-drained soil. Stem cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood in late summer or autumn.
Ensure cuttings have at least two nodes and use rooting hormone for better success rates.
Young plants may require repotting every 1-2 years as they grow. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Repot in spring before the growing season begins. Mature trees rarely need repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia)
Where Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia) 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 quinquenervia |
Similar in genus Melaleuca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
