A red bottlebrush tree is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the Callistemon genus, known for its iconic, crimson-red flower spikes. The best-known species is the crimson bottlebrush, Callistemon citrinus, which is native to Australia and widely cultivated.
Key features
Flowers: The tree gets its name from its flowers, which are made of numerous bright red, bristle-like stamens clustered around the stem in a cylindrical shape. The nectar-rich blossoms are attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Foliage: The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped. In some varieties, like the crimson bottlebrush, they release a citrus-like aroma when crushed.
Growth habit: Many varieties are dense and upright, while others have a weeping form, such as the weeping bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis).
Fruit: After blooming, the plant produces small, woody, bead-like capsules that can persist on the branches for years.
Growing and care guide
Sunlight: For the best and most prolific flowering, plant your bottlebrush in full sun, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil: It is adaptable to most soil types, including clay and sand, as long as the soil is well-drained. Poorly draining, waterlogged soil can cause root rot.
Watering: Water newly planted trees regularly to help them establish strong root systems. Once established, they are drought-tolerant but will perform best with occasional deep watering during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Fertilize with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning: The best time to prune is after the flowering period to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Bottlebrushes tolerate hard pruning. You can train it into a single-trunked tree or keep it as a shrub.
Hardiness zones: Most red bottlebrush varieties are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 811. Some are tolerant of light frost, but they can be damaged or killed by severe, prolonged freezing temperatures. In colder climates, they can be grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter.
