Melaleuca incana
Gray Honey Myrtle
Description
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 of Western Australia. This evergreen shrub does best in full sun. Tolerates coastal conditions. Prefers well draining soil but will tolerate most kinds of soils.
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Width Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Yellow, White
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Grey
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Patio, Park, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Cut Flowers, Hedge, Screen
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water high water-use plants separately from low water-use plants.
Low water-use plants can grow with one-half the water needed by high water-use plants, and can be easily damaged from over watering.