Family: Myrtaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Melaleuca bracteata (black teatree, river tea-tree, white cloudtree) is native to Australia, where it occurs in a range of habitats including river margins and seasonally wet areas. It is a fast-growing evergreen tree or large shrub with fine, narrow leaves and feathery clusters of cream to yellowish flowers that attract pollinators. In cultivation, it is often used as an ornamental landscape tree, for hedging or windbreaks, and occasionally for essential oil production or as a nectar source for bees.

Risks & Threats
Although Melaleuca bracteata is currently not known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it does possess traits that are cause for concern, and which could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. Like other species in the genus, it is fast-growing, produces abundant seeds, and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, allowing it to potentially spread beyond intended plantings. In some regions, melaleucas have become invasive, forming dense stands that displace native vegetation, alter hydrology, and increase fire risk. Given these traits, caution is warranted in its use, especially in areas with sensitive native ecosystems. When possible, choosing a low-risk or Hawaiian native alternative is recommended to help protect local biodiversity and ecosystem health.

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