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 wilsonii is one of the most attractive members of the genus and is often cultivated in drier climates, similar to that of its natural habitat.

The species forms a low, spreading shrub to about 1.5 metres high by 2 metres across. The flowers occur on the older wood in conspicuous clusters and are mauve to purple in colour. Flowering occurs in spring.

The narrow leaves are about 15 mm long, tapering to a point.

This species is not grown as widely as it deserves. Although native to a dry climate M.wilsonii has proven to be adaptable in temperate and sub-tropical areas. It requires a well drained, sunny position and responds to annual fertilising after flowering. Light pruning after flowering can be carried out to promote a bushy shape.

Propagation is easy from both seed and cuttings.