Phenotypic variation in calorific value of melaleuca materials from south florida

Phenotypic variation in calorific value among melaleuca samples from natural stands in South Florida is described. One hundred trees were selected from ten 5 m × 5 m test plots distributed evenly in 2 geographic areas—Lee County and Dade County. In general, no geographic changes in calorific value, for either wood and bark, were evident. Differences among the plot averages were significant. Both calorific values of wood and bark fluctuated greatly among trees within plots. The calorific value did not seem to relate with the size of tree. Implications for tree improvement are discussed.