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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtles) |
| Origin: Australia (Australasia) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Pale Yellow |
| Bloomtime: Spring/Summer |
| Height: 6-10 feet |
| Width: 6-12 feet |
| Exposure: Full Sun |
| Seaside: Yes |
| Summer Dry: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 20-25° F |
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Melaleuca incana (Gray Honey-myrtle) - This is a fairly quick-growing shrub with wonderfully arching branches to about 10 feet tall and wide. The soft leaves are small (1/2 inch long), gray, narrow and linear-lanceolate in shape; they give the plant an overall soft look. Small dark reddish buds open to reveal light yellow bottle-brush flowers in late spring through early summer. Although it is drought resistant once established, it looks better with occasional watering. It can be damaged by hard frosts - cut back any damaged portions after the threat of all frosts has passed. It is hardy to 20 degrees F. A very attractive and durable soft foliaged plant that is great as a specimen plant. It comes from the southwestern tip or Western Australia. The name for the genus comes from the Greek words 'melas' meaning "black" and 'leukos" meaning "white" because the first Melaleuca to be described had lighter colored branches against a darker, possibly burnt trunk. The specific epithet means "hoary" or "white" in referrence to the hairy grey foliage. We also grow a low growing form called Melaleuca incana 'Prostrate Form'.
This description is based on our research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We will also incorporate comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information about this plant, in particular if this information is contrary to what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Melaleuca incana.
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