General Description:

Melaleuca is a large genus of around 245 species.  Most are found in Australia, especially in the south-west of Western Australia, with a few also occurring in New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea and south-east Asia.  Some authorities now include the genus Callistemon in Melaleuca but this classification is not universally accepted (see Melaleuca and Callistemon: Why are they Different?).

Melaleuca megacephala is an erect, bushy shrub from 0.5 to 3 metres high. The leaves are concave, elliptical to oval-shaped and 15-25 mm long. The flowers occur in globular shaped clusters on the ends of the branches (terminal). The cream to yellow clusters are are larger than most similarly-flowered melaleucas (about 30-35 mm in diameter) and occur during spring. The flowers are followed by globular seed capsules.

Although native to a dry summer climate Melaleuca megacephala has been grown successfully in more humid climates, such as along the coastal strip east of the Great Dividing Range. However, it is probably not suited to sub-tropical and tropical climates. Despite the large flower clusters and neat foliage, this species seems to be only rarely cultivated. It requires a well drained, sunny position. The species responds to pruning to encourage a bushy shape. It is tolerant of light to moderate frost.

Propagation is easy from both seed and cuttings.