Flower heads formed of feathery bunches of vivid magenta-rose stamens, closely set surrounding the stems of older wood, may open at any time from the end of October and are at their best in the first half of November. After a cool and showery spring, flowering may continue until the end of November, but in a season of hot dry spells flowering is often poor and short. Bees crowd the plant when it is in flower. The species is exceptionally good for cut flowers. Even long sprays last for at least two weeks indoors.
Propagation is easy from seed.
At planting time an open or semi-shaded position may be selected, after which little care is needed apart from watering during dry periods to avoid bare wood. Pruning is not necessary other than to control a desired shape and the shrub is generally free from diseases and pests. Melaleucas are adaptable in the home garden and may often thrive in a constantly damp or badly drained situation in which it is difficult to find a suitable plant to grow. Some of the larger trees are used commercially in boatbuilding and fencing and many species grow in coastal regions.