Lemon Bottlebrush

(Melaleuca pallida)

Lemon Bottlebrush (Melaleuca pallida)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Melaleuca pallida, commonly known as Lemon Bottlebrush, is a perennial shrub native to the coastal swamps and wet woodlands of eastern Australia and Tasmania. It typically reaches up to 8 meters (30 feet) in height and is characterized by its thin, spreading branches and fibrous or papery bark. The foliage often has a silvery sheen due to its new growth. The pale yellow to cream, and occasionally pinkish-red bottlebrush flowers are showy and appear in spikes at the ends of branches. Flowering occurs from spring to summer (October to February in the Southern Hemisphere), and the plant produces distinctive woody, cup-shaped capsules as fruit.

Lemon Bottlebrush is valued for its unique flowers and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and birds. It is used in cultivation for ornamental purposes, often in urban landscapes, as a feature or screening plant, and in areas requiring plants that can tolerate wet conditions. This shrub is relatively easy to maintain, requiring medium water and thriving in full sun to part shade. It prefers soils with medium drainage and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. Lemon Bottlebrush is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 3-5 feet
  • Width: 3-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Cream
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

native to the coastal swamps and wet woodlands of eastern Australia and Tasmania

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Callistemon pallidus, Melaleuca pallida, Metrosideros pallida,

GBIF Accepted Name: Melaleuca pallida (Bonpl.) Craven