Family: Myrtaceae
Melaleuca glomerata (desert honey-myrtle, inland paperbark, white tea tree) is an upright shrub native to inland Australia. It is a hardy tree that tolerates salinity well, sometimes being used as a street tree. There have been no reports of invasiveness or naturalization thus far, but there is no evidence of widespread introduction outside its native range. However, other species in this genus are invasive. Its ability to tolerate tropical climates, a variety of soil types and create dense stands create some cause for concern.
High Risk Traits:
- Able to grow in tropical climates
- Other Melaleuca species are invasive
- Tolerates many soil types
- Forms dense thickets in native range (may suppress other vegetation)
- Reproduces by seeds
- Seeds dispersed by wind, water and intentionally by people
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Palatable to wallabies, camels and possibly other grazing animals
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Herbicides may provide effective control