Broad-leaved Paperbark, Coarse-leaved paperbark
Melaleuca viridiflora
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A medium to large tree. It grows 7-18 m high. It spreads 5-8 m wide. Often the branches hang down. The bark is papery. The young branches are grey or bronze with silky hairs. The leaves are broad and oval. The leaf stalks are 0.4-2 cm long. The leaves are green and thick and leathery. They have 3-5 prominent veins. The flowers are in white, yellow-green or red spikes. These are at the ends of branches or in the axils of upper leaves. They are 4-15 cm long by 2-3 cm wide. There are clusters of 1-3 heads. The capsule is 0.25-4 cm long by 0.4-0.6 cm wide and cup shaped.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It can grow from temperate to subtropical regions. It also grows in the tropics. It can grow in semi-arid regions. It needs well drained soil but the soil should be moist. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, East Africa, Indochina, Indonesia, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, SE Asia, Southern Africa, Thailand, Vietnam, Zimbabwe
How it is used for food
The bark was wrapped around food while cooking. The leaves are used as a substitute for tea.
Edible parts
Bark - flavouring, trunk - water
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Broadleaf paperbark, Green paper-bark, Swamp paperbark