Family: Myrtaceae
High Risk Traits:
- Broad climate suitability
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Described as a potential weed because of its seeding and suckering habit
- Other Melaleuca species are invasive
- Tolerates many soil types
- Forms dense stands in native range
- Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by suckering
- Able to reach maturity rapidly (within 7 months)
- Seeds dispersed by wind, water and intentionally by people
- Prolific seed production
- Able to coppice after cutting
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite potential weediness, no confirmed reports of naturalization or invasiveness outside native range
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Non-toxic
- Requires full sun (and shade may limit or inhibit spread)
- Herbicides may provide effective control