Bottlebrush
The bottlebrush plant got its nickname from its shape that's just like- you guessed it- a bottle brush.
With its cheery red or yellow flower spikes, bottlebrush is an excellent choice for adding color to a hot and dry garden.
We also love that it has a long blooming season, interesting texture, and low maintenance needs.
Botanical name: The genus is Callistemon. The botanical name for the 'Little John' variety is Callistemon viminalis 'Little John.'
Other names: Melaleuca citrina, Dwarf callistemon, Callistemon citrinus 'Nana.'
Bottlebrush shrub used as a dense hedge
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Bottlebrush Appearance
The 'Little John' variety is a shrub that reaches about 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width. Other bottlebrush varieties can reach 10-30 feet.
Evergreen shrub with small and narrow, dense set of leaves that are grayish-green. Leaves are covered with fine hair that helps them to conserve water.
Small, white flowers that are hard to see as a whole. The most noticeable part of the bottlebrush- the long, dense, bright red wires- are the stamens of the flowers. (Callistemon includes the word "stamen" in its name.) These flower spikes appear at the very end of branches and resemble bottle brushes used for cleaning.
Some bottlebrush varieties have pink, yellow, or cream-colored flower spikes, although red is the most common.
Small, dark-colored fruit capsules.
Bottlebrush Landscaping Tips
Drought and heat resistant once established. Low maintenance with minimal pruning and fertilizing needed.
Attracts pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Attractive and dense foliage year-round makes bottlebrush a great hedge. Bottlebrush 'Little John' is a dwarf variety that is very easy to manage. Great for lining pathways, driveways, garden borders, and house foundations.
The long blooming season adds bright color to the garden. Because of their longevity, bottlebrush flowers are often enjoyed as cut flowers.
Crush leaves to release a citrus scent.
Does well in containers. Prune back in early spring to keep to the desired shape.
Bottlebrush Origin
Southeastern parts of Australia, which enjoy temperate weather
Bottlebrush in a 1 gallon container
Bottlebrush Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to frost (= 32 degrees) for a short period of time. Does well in the heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in the Palm Springs area.
Bottlebrush Problems
Pests: Bottlebrush is mostly pest resistant. The most common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and scales.
To remove mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of the infestation using a cotton swab.
To remove spider mites, use horticultural oil for crawlers and insecticidal soap for mites of all stages.
To remove scales, pick them off or use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Horticultural oil will kill both crawlers and adults with direct contact. Insecticidal soap is better used to target only the crawlers.
Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, yellowing foliage
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying
Signs of too much sun: Burning, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Bottlebrush Propagation
Propagating bottlebrush via cuttings is easy. Obtain 6 inch to 1 foot cuttings, and plant them in moist soil.
FAQ
How much doES bottlebrush cost?
At our nursery, ‘Little John’ bottlebrush costs $20 for a 5-gallon container and $75 for a 15-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How big does bottlebrush get?
Some varieties can become 30 feet trees and some varieties such as 'Little John' is a shrub that reaches about 3 feet in height.
Is bottlebrush easy to grow?
In areas that enjoy mild winters, bottlebrush is very easy to grow outdoors. It requires low maintenance with minimal pruning needed.
SUMMARY
| SIZE (H X W) | 3 feet x 4 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Red |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Fall |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Fast |
| HARDINESS | 32º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |