ScienceAugust 19, 2026
melaleucas
mel-uh-LOO-kuhz
Definition
A genus of plants in the myrtle family, commonly known as paperbarks, honey-myrtles, or tea-trees, often used in gardening and landscaping.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek words 'melas' (black) and 'leukos' (white), referring to the trunk of the first species discovered, which was noted for its charred, black appearance contrasting with its lighter-colored inner bark.
In the news
The article mentions melaleucas as an example of small myrtaceous plants that can be successfully grown from cuttings rather than from seeds.
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Read the full article ↗ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation