Care of the shrub Callistemon viminalis or Weeping Bottlebrush |
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The genus Callistemon, family Myrtaceae, includes 40 species of trees and shrubs native to Australia. Some species are: Callistemon viminalis, Callistemon rugulosus, Callistemon pallidus, Callistemon glaucus, Callistemon citrinus, Callistemon quadrifidus, Callistemon linearis, Callistemon subulatus. Common names: Red Bottlebrush, Weeping Bottlebrush, Drooping Bottlebrush. This species is endemic to New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia. They are shrubs or evergreen trees with elegant hanging branches that reach 8 meters (26.24 feet) in height. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, green in color and end in a sharp point. The flowers are red and appear in spikes up to 10 cm (3.93") long. They bloom in spring and summer; they are able to bloom also in autumn (with fewer flowers). They are used to form screens, to fix slopes or as isolated specimens; they can be grown next to ponds and streams. They are ideal plants for streets and public parks due to their tolerance to pollution from cities. A sweet drink is obtained by soaking the inflorescences in water. They attract bees and birds. Callistemon viminalis can be grown in full sun and semi-shade exposures. They do not resist frost well. They prefer well-drained and moist soils but can grow in waterlogged soils. Water regularly, waiting for the soil to dry out. They do not need fertilizers. Prune after flowering to keep it compact and eliminate wilted flowers. They can be attacked by mealybugs and thrips. They propagate by seeds sown in spring that germinate in 1-4 weeks or by semi-woody cuttings. |
Images of the shrub Callistemon viminalis or Weeping Bottlebrush |
 Callistemon viminalis  Callistemon viminalis  Callistemon viminalis |