SafePlants

Bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.)

Bottlebrushes, belonging to the genus Callistemon, are known for their distinctive cylindrical flower spikes resembling traditional bottle brushes.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions confusion with Aesculus parviflora, a toxic Buckeye "Bottlebrush" plant containing Aesculin, suggesting a need to differentiate between the two.

Considerations for Children

• The plant possesses brush-like flower spikes and stamens that children may touch or interact with.

Common Names

• Bottlebrush
• Red Bottlebrush
• Lemon Bottlebrush
• Crimson Bottlebrush

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Callistemon
• Family: Myrtaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Bottlebrushes (Callistemon spp.) are native to Australia.
• They are considered hardy Australian native plants.
• They are commonly found in dry, sunny yards and landscaping, especially in areas like Houston and Phoenix.

Morphological Characteristics & Growth Habits

• Evergreen shrubs or small trees.
• Aromatic, linear to lance-shaped leaves.
• Cylindrical, brush-like spikes of flowers with long, colorful stamens.
• Some varieties, like Red Cluster bottlebrush, have dense foliage and a fast growth habit.
• Dwarf varieties exist, such as Callistemon citrinus 'Little John', which is a mid-sized, red-flowering evergreen shrub.

Ecological Role

• Hummingbirds and bees are attracted to the flowers, making bottlebrushes beneficial for pollinators.

Other Noteworthy Information

• Once established, bottlebrush plants are extremely drought-tolerant.
• They are long-lived and require minimal maintenance.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Bottlebrush" is derived from the flower spikes' resemblance to a bottle brush.
• Bottlebrush Films is a collective of filmmakers.

Further Information

• UC IPM provides information about managing pests of bottlebrush in gardens and landscapes.
• Dave's Garden is a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens.