Plant guide

Bottlebrush.

Callistemon citrinus

Pronounced kal-lis-STEE-mon si-TRY-nus

Also known as Crimson bottlebrush, bottle brush

The bottlebrush is a stunning shrub known for its unique, vibrant flower spikes that resemble a cleaning brush. It loves plenty of sunshine and brings a wonderful tropical feel to any garden. You will find it is quite hardy once it gets settled in its spot.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Evergreen shrub
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 10 to 15 feet
Growth rate: Medium

Care

Plant this beauty in a spot that gets plenty of sun to encourage the best blooms. Keep an eye out for yellowing leaves, which often signal that the soil is too alkaline or lacks proper drainage. Regular pruning after the flowering season helps keep the shrub dense and full.

Watering: Water deeply once the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring to support growth.
Pruning: Trim back the branches right after the main flowering period ends.
Repotting: Move to a larger container only when the roots have filled the current pot.
Soil: Well draining, slightly acidic soil
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Bright red cylindrical flower spikes
Narrow, lance shaped evergreen leaves
Leaves smell like lemon when crushed
Woody stems with rough bark

Science

Family: Myrtaceae
Genus: Callistemon
Order: Myrtales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your bottlebrush looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

Get the app

This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.