Black Tea Tree (Melaleuca bracteata)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes abundant flowering and dense foliage growth

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Watering Water deeply and allow top 5–10 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established

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Temperature Hardy to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate to subtropical conditions; avoid prolonged frost exposure

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Leaf: Narrow linear to lanceolate leaves; glossy green, aromatic when crushed
Flower: Creamy-white bottlebrush spikes clustered at branch tips
Stem/Bark: Papery, peeling light brown bark; slender, rigid upright branches

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Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced granular feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to support flowering

Pruning

Prune immediately after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new growth
Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Trim hedges every 4–6 weeks during growing season to maintain desired height and density

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA notes tea tree-related plants may cause vomiting, lethargy if ingested in large quantities

Humans: Raw foliage ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset; concentrated plant oils can irritate skin

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental hedging, coastal windbreak, and source of mild tea-scented foliage for crafts