Biconvex Paperbark (Melaleuca biconvexa)
Biconvex Paperbark is a shrub or small to medium-sized tree, 3 to 10 metres tall, though occasionally as high as 20 metres. It is one of several paperbark Melaleuca trees which grow in our area. A key feature for identifying this paperbark against the few other paperbarks in our region are the leaves, which form a distinct X shape along the stem, placed at right angles to each other.
The bark is that of a typical paperbark. The leaves are small and have a distinctive, wing-like shape with a centre vein forming a groove in each leaf. The flowers, in spring and summer, are usually clustered in dense, white- or cream-coloured heads at or near the ends of its branches.
Distribution
Only found in NSW, Biconvex paperbark grows in damp places, often near streams in coastal districts and adjacent tablelands from Jervis Bay north to the Port Macquarie district. It is listed as a threatened species in NSW and Australia but is quite common along the boardwalks in Calwalla and Blair Reserves in Port Macquarie.
Animal habitats
These trees provide essential habitats for various wildlife species. Birds such as lorikeets and honeyeaters, as well as, flying foxes often visit the flowers and are probably also pollinators. Insects, including the honeybee, flies, beetles, wasps and thrips are the main pollinators, and small mammals find shelter and food in the foliage and bark, promoting biodiversity in your garden.
Want to know more about protecting our threatened species? You can read more here: Home is where the hollow is – ConnectEd PMH
Landcare nursery
It is a suitable small tree to grow if you have particularly damp ground on your property. Most species respond well to pruning and it is recommended to undertake a light annual trim to promote bushy growth. Our native plant of the month, Biconvex paperbark is generally available to purchase at the Landcare Nursery. www.landcareportmac.com.au
