Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) is a popular small ornamental tree or large shrub grown across India for its striking cylindrical flower spikes of bright red, made up of many long stamens that resemble a bottle-cleaning brush. The narrow, lemon-scented leaves and gracefully arching branches give it a soft weeping habit. Flowering mainly in spring and again through the year in warm areas, the nectar-rich blooms draw sunbirds, bees and butterflies. Hardy, drought-tolerant and easy to grow in gardens or large pots, it suits lawns, borders and avenues alike.
Specifications
| Family |
Myrtaceae |
| Native region |
Australia |
| Mature height |
3-7 m |
| Mature spread |
2-5 m |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, narrow lemon-scented leaves |
| Flower colour |
Bright red |
| Flower season |
Mainly spring; sporadic year-round |
| Climate zone |
Subtropical to tropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun |
| Watering |
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained soil; tolerates poor and slightly saline soils |
| Temperature |
Thrives in 10-40C; fairly frost-hardy when mature |
| Humidity |
Tolerates a wide range |
| Fertilizer |
Light low-phosphorus feed in spring |
| Pruning |
Prune lightly after flowering to keep dense and shapely |
| Repotting |
Every 2-3 years if container-grown |
| Propagation |
Seeds and semi-hardwood cuttings |
| Pests & problems |
Largely pest-free; occasional scale or mealybug |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic, generally pet-safe |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
Grown as an ornamental flowering tree or hedge in gardens, lawns, borders and large containers; the nectar-rich red flowers attract birds and pollinators.
Growing tips
Plant in full sun and prune lightly just after each flush of flowers to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. It tolerates India's heat well and can also be grown in big pots on terraces.