Largeleaf Paperbark Plant Care

Largeleaf Paperbark (Pericalymma megaphyllum) belongs to the Myrtaceae family within the Pericalymma genus. Largeleaf Paperbark is native to Western Australia.

Largeleaf Paperbark displays a compact, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Largeleaf Paperbark produces small white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Largeleaf Paperbark every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Largeleaf Paperbark thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Largeleaf Paperbark in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Pericalymma megaphyllum tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Largeleaf Paperbark prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining acidic soil mix with added organic matter like peat moss and pine bark. Good drainage is essential for Largeleaf Paperbark to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Largeleaf Paperbark every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining acidic soil mix with added organic matter like peat moss and pine bark. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Largeleaf Paperbark is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Largeleaf Paperbark can spread to about 2 ft (0.6 m) and reach about 3 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Largeleaf Paperbark while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Largeleaf Paperbark is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Largeleaf Paperbark can be propagated through softwood cuttings, air layering.

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Largeleaf Paperbark is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Largeleaf Paperbark grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Largeleaf Paperbark is native to Western Australia. In cooler regions, grow Largeleaf Paperbark as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.