Tea Tree
melaleuca alternifolia
Also known as: ["Narrow-leaved Tea Tree","Narrow-leaved Paperbark"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to Australia, known for its aromatic leaves used in essential oils.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Melaleuca |
| Botanical Name: | Melaleuca alternifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter and sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can handle significant pruning but avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in subtropical conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering in extreme temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris; monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for organic matter; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicTea tree oil is toxic to cats, with ingestion or undiluted topical application posing significant risks. Cats lack the liver enzymes to metabolize terpenes effectively, leading to severe toxicity that can affect the central nervous system and cause organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or applied undiluted
Dogs
ToxicTea tree oil is highly toxic to dogs, particularly when ingested or applied undiluted. The terpenes in the oil can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress, leading to symptoms ranging from lethargy to muscle weakness and even coma.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or applied undiluted
Humans
Slightly ToxicMelaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is generally safe when used topically in diluted form. However, undiluted application or ingestion can lead to irritation and systemic toxicity due to its volatile compounds, such as terpenes, which can disrupt cellular functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if applied undiluted or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Melaleuca alternifolia safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the main uses of Tea Tree?
A: It is primarily used for its essential oil, which has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: How should I care for a Tea Tree plant?
A: It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
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| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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