Melaleuca brevifolia, commonly known as Mallee Honey-myrtle or Short-leaf Honey-myrtle, is a shrub or small tree native to the mallee regions of Australia, including western Victoria, southeastern South Australia, and southwestern Western Australia. It is adapted to grow in semi-arid environments, often found in mallee scrub, a type of vegetation characterized by multi-stemmed eucalypts and diverse understory species. This plant typically reaches up to 13 feet in height and is notable for its rough, corky bark and dense foliage. The white to yellowish flowers, which appear on the previous season’s growth, are not particularly showy but are attractive to bees and other pollinators. Flowering occurs mainly in spring and summer. The fruits are small, cup-shaped woody capsules that can persist on the plant.

Mallee Honey-myrtle is valued for its ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in areas with salty soils or those containing limestone. It is a moderately hardy garden plant that requires good drainage and thrives in a sunny position. In landscaping, it can be used for screening, windbreaks, or as a feature plant in water-wise gardens. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it may benefit from occasional pruning to maintain a desired shape and promote denser growth. It is also known for its resilience to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. This species is not considered threatened, indicating a stable population in its native habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0