Wrapped
in Paper
This is the Freshwater Paperbark (Melaleuca
rhaphiophylla), a distinctive tree of wetland areas.
Look at the slender, needle-like leaves and pale, papery
bark that sheds in strips from the trunk.
Many animals hide and feed in paperbarks.
Waterbirds nest in the spreading branches. The bark and
leaves shelter invertebrates and lizards. These animals
are preyed upon by birds such as pardalotes, sittellas and
butcherbirds.
Creamy white bottlebrush flowers
appear from September to January and attract nectar-feeding
birds and insects.
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