Paperbark, Weeping Paperbark

Melaleuca leucadendra

Physical Characteristics

Melaleuca leucadendra is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Birds. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Australasia - northern and western Australia to New Caledonia and Malaysia

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Oil Edible Uses: Oil Tea The essential oil is used as a flavouring in items such as candy, baked goods, condiments, relishes etc[238 , 301 ]. The fruits and leaves are used to make a tea[301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Antiseptic Antispasmodic Aromatic Expectorant Odontalgic Parasiticide Stimulant An essential oil obtained from the leaves contains several terpenoids including 50 - 60% of the strongly antiseptic cineole, betapinene and alpha-terpineol[254 ]. It is aromatic and stimulant with a strong camphoraceous aroma. It is expectorant, relieves spasms, increases perspiration and expels internal parasites[238 ]. It is used internally in the treatment of bronchitis, tuberculosis, colds, sinusitis, gastric infections and roundworms[238 ]. Externally, it is used to treat rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, acne, nasal congestion, sinusitis, toothache, chilblains and skin diseases[238 ]. The leaves and twigs can be harvested at any time of the year and used fresh, dried or the essential oil can be extracted[254 ]. This herb, especially in the form of the essential oil, is subject to legal restrictions in some countries[238 ].

Known Hazards

None known