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melaleuca stypheloides
paper bark tree

Melaleuca styphelioides s an evergreen tree that has an upright habit. Also called Prickly leaf paperbark, the small light green leaves hang downward and have a bit of a poky tip. Like the other Melaleucas the flowers are white and very showy. This is a tree that can take full sun or a bit of shade. Growth is moderate and dense. One of its chief features is the tan-colored bark that turns dark gray as it ages and then peels off. Litter generated from the bark and blossoms may be an issue in some situations depending on where located. It can take regular water without rot issues.

This tree is recommended on many southern California city tree lists for its hardiness, but has not been seen growing in Marina (yet).

Black Tee Tree is not fussy about soil, and is resistant to Oak root fungus. Because of its mature height, it should not be planted near power lines. Probably should be given enough room to grow to full height and is not recommended as a street tree.

Maximum height
35-45 feet
15-25 feet wide

Life Span
100+ years


Criteria for Ranking

Ranking
1 (low) - 5 (high)

Drought Tolerance after first year establishment 5
Wind Tolerance 3*
Frost Tolerance 5
Surface Roots/Sidewalk Lifting 4
Power Lines Proximity

2**
Cost/Maintenance 4*
Disease Resistance/Hardiness 5
   
*note asterisk denote species will be shaped by a prevailing wind. Single trunk trained trees need more protection than multi-trunk to grow straight.
**note species is not recommended near power lines

Location Have not spotted this Melaleuca in Marina (yet).