Alligatorweed may form dense mats that block access to water and boat traffic. These plants are smaller in size and have different flower types. See also Alternanthera philoxeroides Paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia Paperbark is an Australian tree that may reach over 50 feet in height, rarely 75 feet, but is often found growing as a shrub or smaller tree. The bark is pale brown to whitish and forms in spongy layers. They are aromatic when crushed and are dark green in color.
Seed capsules are woddy and found along the thinner branches.
Paperbark seedlings germinate in shallow water or damp ground and can form dense thickets, blocking access to water and wetland areas. Native vegetation may be rapidly displaced by paperbark thickets. Paperbark has been planted as a windbreak to protect agricultural crops as an an ornamental tree or shrub. It may be frequently be found for sale at garden centers. Leaves of torpedograss are about 0.8 to 0.28 inches wide and may be flattened or folded.