Paper-bark Tree

Paper-bark tree (Melaleuca cajuputi) is a large evergreen with pale, peeling bark and grey-green, leathery leaves. In tropical climates it can grow into a very tall canopy, so plan for its mature scale and wet-site preferences. ## Appearance and setting Small white, cream or greenish-white flowers form dense spikes, and fresh foliage may appear silvery grey. The species is native from Southeast Asia to northern Australia; field records describe it in coastal forest and low, seasonally flooded plains. It grows in full sun, tolerates waterlogged root zones and produces flowers visited by bees and birds. The Singapore National Parks Board lists it for roadsides, parks, gardens and riverine settings. [NParks species profile](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/3/0/3019); [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:115161-3). ## Size and climate NParks reports a maximum height of 40 metres, while an Australian forestry reference records exceptional trees up to 46 metres in the Northern Territory. It is a substantial tropical tree, not a compact garden shrub; give it ample overhead and root space. [Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research](https://www.aciar.gov.au/sites/default/files/legacy/mn156-prelims_1.pdf). ## Maintenance Plant in full sun and provide moderate water. It tolerates wet ground, but choose a location with room for a large tree and keep it clear of buildings, overhead wires and narrow paths.