Bottlebrush plants, called Callistemon, are a genus of flowering plants in the Myrtaceae family. These plants are native to Australia but are grown in other parts of the world for their attractive flowers and foliage.
Some bottlebrushes are naturally dense and compact, making them good informal hedges; others are sparse and open (can be pruned into small trees). They have flexible branches that can be grown as informal trellises. They can grow up to 10 or 15 feet tall, while other varieties only grow to 3 feet.
About Bottlebrush Plants
Callistemon bottlebrush is an Australian native shrub that grows well in warm North American climates up to about zone 8.
- Common names: bottlebrush, crimson bottlebrush, lemon bottlebrush, hard bottlebrush, prickly bottlebrush
- Botanical name: Melaleuca spp. (formerly Callistemon)
- Family: Myrtaceae
- Plant type: Tree, shrub
- Mature size: 3–15 feet tall, 3–15 feet wide
- Full sun exposure
- Soil type: Well-drained, moist
- Soil pH: slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (6.0–8.0)
- Flower color: Red, pink, yellow, white
- Hardiness zones: 8B–11B (USDA)
- Native area: Australia
Bottlebrush care
Bottlebrush plants require relatively little maintenance. Pruning is usually done to maintain a desired shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
- Usually purchased as a flowering shrub, a bottlebrush can be espaliered or pruned into a tree form.
- Plant bottlebrush in full sun in well-drained soil in coastal and southern tropical gardens.
- Dig a hole for planting two to three times wider than the root ball.
- First, amend the soil you dug up to improve drainage.
- If you have nutrient-poor sandy soil, mix in some organic matter, such as compost.
- Repot the soil around the plant and water thoroughly.
- Spread mulch around the new plant.
- Once established, bottlebrush plants have a high drought tolerance and require little care if they get sunlight and well-drained soil.
- Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and a more compact form.
How to Grow Bottlebrush Plants
Bottlebrush plants can vary in size, from small shrubs to small trees, depending on the species and cultivar. They usually have a dense, bushy growth habit and can reach 3 to 15 feet (1 to 4.5 m.). These plants thrive in warm, sunny locations. They adapt to a variety of soil types but prefer well-drained soil.
Light
Bottlebrush needs full sun or at least six hours per day to thrive. If planted in the shade or surrounded by tall plants that block the sun, consider removing the bottlebrush or pruning other tall plants. Bottlebrush provides a colorful spectacle in the garden, and its beauty will be limited if it lacks sunlight.
Soil
Bottlebrush is not picky about soil type but needs good drainage. Waterlogging can cause disease. Conversely, the roots will not get the deep water they need if water cannot penetrate heavy soil. Mix in compost and shredded leaves to improve drainage in clay. Planting on a raised bed can also help improve drainage.
Bottlebrush can suffer in very alkaline and impoverished, sandy soil. If this is the case with your garden soil, add organic matter to help retain moisture and lower the pH.
Water
Once established, the bottlebrush requires minimal care. If the climate is dry or rainfall levels are low, supplement with good irrigation to provide moisture for the first year while the root system is established. Water deeply and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Water established plants during dry periods, especially if the leaves are wilting. Supplemental water is less needed in the winter when the plant is not actively growing.
Temperature and Humidity
Bottlebrush plants prefer heat and can grow in humid climates as long as their soil is well-drained and not soggy. This plant can also thrive in dry climates but not deserts. It benefits from irrigation during prolonged dry periods. It is moderately salt tolerant, making the bottlebrush plant a good choice for coastal gardens.
Most bottlebrush varieties survive the winter in zones 8b or 9, although some cold-hardy varieties are available for zone 7. Although the bottlebrush is evergreen, frost can damage or kill the leaves.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing bottlebrush can help maintain health, stimulate growth, and keep the leaves a nice dark green color. Apply a slow-release plant fertilizer in early spring and again in late spring or early summer, following the package directions for how much to apply. Wait to fertilize within two months of the first frost date, as frost can damage new growth.
Bottlebrushes can develop chlorosis when new leaves turn yellow due to iron deficiency. This is more common in soil that is too alkaline. If you experience this, use a fertilizer containing sulfur and iron to help the plant turn green (many fertilizers for acid-loving trees and shrubs contain sulfur). You can also have your local extension office test your soil and follow recommendations to adjust the soil pH or provide more nutrients.
Types of Bottlebrush Plants?
The bottlebrush family has many flowers, leaves, and growth habits.
Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush)
Flowers: Bright red spikes, bottlebrush-like.
Leaves: Narrow, fragrant leaves with a citrus-like scent.
Height: Typically grows to 3 to 5 meters (10 to 16 feet).
Uses: Hedges, borders, or free-standing ornamental plants.
Callistemon viminalis (Weeping Bottlebrush)
Flowers: Deep red flower spikes hanging down.
Leaves: Narrow leaves on weeping branches.
Height: Can reach 8 meters (26 feet).
Uses: Often used as a street tree or large garden plant.
Callistemon pallidus (Lemon Bottlebrush)
Flowers: Pale yellow to cream brushes.
Leaves: Gray-green lanceolate leaves.
Height: Grows to about 2-4 m (6-13 ft).
Uses: Adds contrast to the garden with its light flowers.
Callistemon rigidus (rigid bottlebrush)
Flowers: Dense, bright red flower spikes.
Leaves: Narrow, rigid leaves.
Height: Typically grows to 1 to 2 m (3-6 ft).
Uses: Ideal for small spaces or as a ground cover.
Callistemon subulatus (dwarf bottlebrush)
Flowers: Red or pinkish-red brushes.
Leaves: Small, needle-shaped leaves.
Height: Compact, 0.5 to 1 m (1.5 to 3 ft).
Uses: Ground cover, rock garden, or container planting.
Callistemon seaberry (river bottlebrush)
Flowers: Creamy white to light yellow flowers.
Leaves: Narrow, soft leaves.
Height: Reaches up to 4 m (13 ft).
Uses: Suitable for flood-prone areas or near waterways.
Callistemon linearis (narrow-leaved bottlebrush)
Flowers: Spikes of bright red flowers.
Leaves: Very narrow, needle-shaped leaves.
Height: Can grow up to 3-4 m (10-13 ft).
Uses: Works well in formal gardens or as a screening plant.
Callistemon glaucus (Albany bottlebrush)
Flowers: Red to pink flowers on bottlebrush.
Leaves: Blue-green leaves.
Height: About 1-2 m (3-6 ft).
Uses: Ornamental gardens in coastal areas.
Callistemon salignus (bottlebrush willow)
Flowers: White to pink or red spikes.
Leaves: Soft, willow-like leaves, often tinged with red or bronze.
Height: Grows up to 10 m (33 ft).
Uses: Large gardens and windbreaks.
Callistemon brachyandrus (Prickly Bottlebrush)
Flowers: Spikes of orange to red flowers.
Leaves: Fine, prickly leaves.
Height: About 2 m (6 ft).
Uses: Ideal for wildlife gardens as it attracts birds and pollinators.
Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush)
Flowers: Bright red spikes, similar to bottlebrush.
Leaves: Narrow, fragrant leaves with a citrus-like scent.
Height: Typically grows to 3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft).
Uses: Hedges, borders, or free-standing ornamental plants.
Problems, pests, and diseases
Bottlebrush has no severe problems, but root rot can be a problem if the soil does not drain well. Potential pests include mites and mealybugs.
The most important aspect of growing bottlebrush is the climate. If it is too cold in winter, this beautiful shrub will not survive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does bottlebrush grow best?
Plant it in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
What is a bottlebrush plant for?
Bottlebrush plants are used as ornamental shrubs or small trees in gardens and landscapes.
Is bottlebrush plant mosquito repellent?
It is effective as a mosquito and insect repellent.
Where is the best place for a bottlebrush?
Bottlebrush plants prefer a location in full sun or partial shade.
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