Callistemon salignus

Bottlebrush

Location

The Terrace

Description:

The species usually grows to between 4 and 10 metres in height and has narrow foliage, white papery bark, and new growth which is purplish-pink.[1] The bottlebrush flower-spikes appear during spring.[1] They are generally creamy white to yellow, though pink and red forms are also seen in cultivation. White Bottlebrush, sometimes known as Willow Bottlebrush is perhaps the largest of the Callistemon family reaching heights of up to fifty feet in maturity. White Bottlebrush is unique in others ways, the bark is pale in color and has the look of paper. The flower spikes may be anything from white through yellow, chartruese or the pink and red tones, paired to small, light green leaves. This evergreen shrub or small tree gets its species name citrinus from the lemony smelling oil glands present in the olive green, lance-shaped leaves. Spring to summer flowers are terminal, axillary, and crimson colored. Plant in neutral to acid, moderately fertile soil in full sun. This plant is tough and makes and excellent hedge. Regular prunning is not necessary. If you do prune, immediately after flowering is best.

Site and Care:

Grow in well-drained soil, of any type, in sun or partial shade. Pruning should only be carried out in winter removing old wood as necessary Propagation is by half-ripe cuttings in autumn.