Bottle Brush (Callistemon)

Callistemon, commonly known as bottlebrush, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. These evergreen shrubs or small trees are native to Australia and nearby islands.

The most distinctive feature of Callistemon is their unique flowers, which are shaped like bottle brushes or spikes, hence the common name. The flowers are composed of numerous small individual flowers that are tightly packed together, creating a cylindrical or bottle-like shape. They come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, purple, and white.

Callistemon plants typically have narrow, pointed leaves that are about 3-4 inches long. They grow to a height of 3-15 feet, depending on the species and cultivar.

These plants are relatively easy to grow and care for. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established and can withstand high temperatures. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Callistemon plants are popular in gardens and landscaping due to their unique flowers and attractive foliage. They are also often used as hedges or screens, as well as in containers or as specimen plants. Additionally, some species of Callistemon are used for medicinal purposes, such as treating coughs and colds.