shrub

Red-flowered Paperbark

Melaleuca hypericifolia

The Story

Plant Bio

Melaleuca hypericifolia is a dense, spreading evergreen shrub native to the coastal cliffs and subcoastal ranges of New South Wales. It features opposite, leathery, dark green leaves on arching branches and produces cylindrical, bright red bottlebrush flower spikes from spring through summer.

This species is distinguished by its highly adaptable nature, tolerating both coastal salt spray and dry soils once established. Unlike many other Australian Myrtaceae, it lacks extreme sensitivity to low-to-moderate phosphorus levels, making it easier to integrate into mixed garden beds.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces striking, bright red cylindrical flower spikes against dark green, arching foliage.

Provides excellent wind protection and erosion control in coastal gardens due to high salt tolerance.

Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and other native pollinators with its nectar-rich blooms.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

118"

Width

98"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Moderate

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in a full sun to partially shaded location with well-draining soil, though it tolerates heavier clay.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, resilient root system.
Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer sparingly in early spring if growth appears sluggish.
Prune lightly immediately after the summer flowering flush to maintain a dense, compact habit.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly just behind the spent flower spikes; cutting back into old, leafless woody stems will fail to shoot and can permanently disfigure the shrub.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune lightly after flowering to encourage dense, bushy growth.
Water during extended dry spells to maintain foliage density.
Use a low-phosphorus native plant fertilizer if feeding is necessary.

Don't

Do not cut back into old, brown, leafless wood as it will not regenerate.
Avoid overwatering in poorly drained soils to prevent root rot.
Do not apply heavy synthetic fertilizers high in phosphorus.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Coastal windbreakHedge or privacy screenSpecimen shrubErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Callistemon citrinus Grevillea robusta Anigozanthos flavidus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red-flowered Paperbark questions

What zones can Red-flowered Paperbark grow in?

Red-flowered Paperbark is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red-flowered Paperbark deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Red-flowered Paperbark, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Red-flowered Paperbark bloom?

Red-flowered Paperbark typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red-flowered Paperbark need full sun?

Red-flowered Paperbark does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Red-flowered Paperbark drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red-flowered Paperbark handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.