BOTTLEBRUSH

Bottlebrush (botanically known as Callistemon, particularly Callistemon citrinus or Callistemon viminalis) is a distinctive woody shrub or small tree named for its cylindrical, bright red flower spikes that resemble a bottle-cleaning brush.  

Key Characteristics

• Botanical Family: Myrtaceae

• Growth Habit: Evergreen shrub to small tree, growing anywhere from 6 to 15 feet (or higher) with arching branches.

• Flowers: Dense, cylindrical flower spikes made of long, vibrant red stamens tipped with tiny yellow pollen.  

   

• Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped green leaves that release a pleasant citrus or eucalyptus-like aroma when crushed.

• Bloom Time: Heavy flowering in spring and summer, often reblooming sporadically in autumn.

Plant Care & Growing Guide

• Sunlight Requirements

  • Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily) for full foliage and maximum blooming.

• Watering

  • Water regularly when young to establish a strong root system.

  • Highly drought-tolerant once established; water when the top 2–3 inches of soil dry out. Avoid waterlogging.

• Soil & Potting Mix

  • Thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

  • Tolerates poor soils, provided drainage is good.

• Temperature & Hardiness

  • Prefers warm, tropical, and subtropical climates.

  • Can handle mild frosts down to around -5°C once mature, but young plants need cold protection.

• Fertilization

  • Low fertilizer needs. Feed once in early spring with a low-phosphorus, balanced organic fertilizer or compost. Excessive nitrogen can reduce flowering.

• Pruning

  • Prune lightly right after the flowering flush ends to maintain shape, remove spent flower heads, and encourage dense growth for the next bloom cycle.