Callistemon citrinus
crimson bottlebrush
An evergreen, arching shrub which may eventually reach a height of around 5m. Leaves are narrowly oblong to lanceolate and lemon-scented when bruised. Bright red flowers arranged in cylindrical spikes up to 10cm long are borne in summer
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Callistemon are evergreen shrubs with aromatic, linear to lance-shaped leaves and bottlebrush-like spikes of flowers in which the long colourful stamens are prominent
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a sheltered position in full sun with a moist but well-drained soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed or from semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insect, mealy bug and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
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