Broad-leaved paperbark, Bellbowrie
Melaleuca quinquenervia

Family: Myrtaceae

What it is like

A tree. It grows 12-25 m tall. The young shoots are whitish with silky hairs. The leaves are stiff and bluish and have a sharp point at the tip. There are 5 veins along them. The flowers are creamy-white and like bottle-brushes. The fruit are woody capsules about 4 mm across.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in swampy places. It can grow in sand and soil that is flooded occasionally.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Guiana, Hawaii, Indochina, New Caledonia, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, USA

How it is used for food

The blossum and young leaves are used for tea. They young leaves are sour and eaten raw. The nectar from the flowers can be used to make a sweet drink. Caution: The aroma can cause allergies.

It is cultivated.

Edible parts

Leaves - tea, nectar

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Melaleuca viridiflora J. Gaertner var. rubriflora Brongniart & Gris.;