Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
The bottlebrush plant, Callistemon citrinus, bears dramatic crimson-red flower spikes, in contrast with dark green, aromatic foliage, in spring and summer. New foliage has a pink-red flush, but darkens with age. Native to Australia, Callistemon citrinus thrives in warm, sheltered conditions, and is suceptible to frost damage.
Holder of the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Callistemon citrinus 'Splendens' is one of the most reliable bottlebrush plants to grow outdoors. The dense cylindrical spikes of crimson flowers are carried on the ends of the willowy branches in summer. Even without flowers its narrow evergreen leaves provide plenty of interest and release a lemon scent if gently bruised.
For best results, and the greatest flowering potential, grow Callistemon citrinus 'Splendens' in front of a sunny wall or in a container which you can bring indoors in autumn. Plant beside a sheltered sunny wall for the best flower displays. To propagate, take cuttings in spring.
Frequently asked questions
Is my bottlebrush dead?
Bottlebrush are not fully cold hardy and will suffer if temperatures fall below USDA Zone 8. Most of the UK is warm enough for the bottlebrush apart from mainland Scotland. However it is always advisable to grow bottlebrush plants in a sheltered spot, away from cold, drying winds. These can damage growth and cause foliage to turn brown.
Over-watering and under-watering can cause bottlebrush foliage to shrivel and may lead to root rot, which can lead to wilting and developing brittle or brown leaves.
Cut away dead material, move to a more sheltered spot and check the pot for over- or underwatering, and remedy as needed. Then wait to see if it starts to grow back. In early spring, a balanced liquid fertiliser will help it on its way.
How do I prune bottlebrush?
Prune back by about a third immediately after flowering in late summer, removing spent flowers and any leggy growth. This will help to keep your bottlebrush compact and bushy.
What do I do with my overgrown bottlebrush tree?
Mature and overgrown bottlebrush plants can be pruned hard in spring to rejuvenate them, which may result in the production of more flowers. If pruning in spring wait until all risk of frost has passed as frost can damage any new growth. Cut the plant back by at least half and remove as much thin twiggy growth as you can.
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Callistemon ‘Splendens’ and wildlife
Callistemon ‘Splendens’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
Is Callistemon ‘Splendens’ poisonous?
Callistemon ‘Splendens’ has no toxic effects reported.
