Melaleuca thymifolia, Thyme-leaf Honey-myrtle is one of a number of small Melaleucas that reach a maximum height of 1.5 metres.

Thyme-leaf Honey-myrtle reaches a height of 1.5 metres with a possible spread of 3 metres.

Leaves are small, bluish-green and spicily aromatic when crushed (reflecting the species and common names).

Flowers are held in axillary spikes on old wood. The usual colour is mauve-purple but there are other colour forms (see below). The spikes are claw-shaped with the ends of the stamens curving inward. Plants may carry blooms for 8 months of the year. Plants usually take a blooming rest in winter. Tip pruning will prevent plants becoming dishevelled.

M. thymifolia is found in NSW and Queensland. In NSW the species has a wide distribution. We have observed plants growing in coastal areas and westwards in the Central Tablelands.

There are a number of cultivars including “Pink Lace”, “White Lace” and a compact, low growing form known as “Little Beauty”. We have found that the “conventional” form with mauve-purple flowers is the most vigorous.

Propagate from seed and cuttings.

Warren and Gloria Sheather

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