Malaleuca (Melaleuca glauca)
Care, watering, light and tips for Malaleuca on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Myrtaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Malaleuca
Melaleuca glauca, commonly known as Bottlebrush, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Australia, renowned for its spectacular, intense red or pink bottle-brush-shaped inflorescences. Its foliage is narrow and aromatic, with a compact and dense growth habit. It's an excellent choice for hedges, screens, or as a standalone specimen in Mediterranean and subtropical gardens, adding a vibrant splash of color.
Native range
Australia
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal blooming. It prefers well-drained soils, tolerating a variety of soil types, though slightly acidic to neutral are ideal; regular watering is crucial during establishment, but once mature, it's quite drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot; a common mistake is over-pruning or pruning at the wrong time, which can drastically reduce flowering. Prune lightly after blooming to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Malaleuca
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown falling leaves, dry or brittle branches, poor or no flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage, prune dead branches, ensure adequate but not excessive watering. Consider fungicide for spots.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or compacted soil with poor drainage. Does not tolerate extreme drought.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if addressed promptly. Inspect roots, correct watering and drainage. Recovery may be slow.