Paper Bark Tree - Melaleuca

Paper Bark Tree

This is a stunning tree when you see it, especially when you're standing it the middle of a forest of purely Paper Bark Trees. The bark I find extroadinary particulary when you handle it.

Paperbark has long been used by Aboriginal people and is a much loved, respected and important resource. From carrying and warming, cooking, wrapping babies, to cups and domestic uses, to art and spiritual practices… paperbark is versatile.

The soft bark peels off from the trunk in sheets, which can be used during menstruation, during and after childbirth and for physical injury where there is bleeding. Women would birth with the baby being born onto a soft sheet of paperbark; or it might be used later for the smoking or welcoming ceremony for the infant.

There are medicinal uses for melaleuca as well. One of the more important uses is the oil that is found in the leaves and can be used as an antiseptic.

Tree and plant identification is an important bushcraft skill enabling you to locate valuable resources such as edible or medicinal items and many different materials for practical applications such as friction fire and cordage making.

It’s quite an interesting experience when I visit a new country and do not recognise most of the trees and plants I see. It creates a disturbing feeling of being lost and disconnected from my surroundings. So when I travel to new places I find it fascinating exploring and discovering the native flora and it’s bushcraft uses.

Whilst visiting Australia I've been struck by the variety of different native trees and plants most of which are completely new to me.

After a little filming and research I’ve produced a series of 60 second films showcasing some of the things I’ve learnt. I’ve chosen several plants and trees which seem to be a very common sight on the east coast of Australia including a few of particular interest to me.