SafePlants

Scarlet Bottlebrush: A Vibrant Addition to Your Garden

The Scarlet Bottlebrush, known for its distinctive flower spikes, brings a splash of color and texture to any landscape. This evergreen shrub is a popular choice for gardens due to its drought tolerance and attractive appearance.

Considerations for Pets

• The Scarlet Bottlebrush has stiff, sharply pointed leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The Scarlet Bottlebrush has stiff, sharply pointed leaves.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Several species are referred to as Scarlet Bottlebrush, including Callistemon citrinus, Callistemon macropunctatus, and Callistemon rugulosus.
• Common Name: Scarlet Bottlebrush, Fiery Bottlebrush.
• Family: Myrtaceae
• Synonyms: Melaleuca rugulosa (for Scarlet Bottlebrush).

Distribution and Habitat

• The Scarlet Bottlebrush is often found in gardens and thrives in USDA zones 8 through 11.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The Scarlet Bottlebrush is a medium-sized evergreen shrub, typically growing to 8-10 feet tall, but some varieties can reach 10-20 feet.
• It has handsome, narrow leaves that release a lemony scent when crushed.
• The plant features crimson-red bottlebrush flowers, blooming primarily in spring and summer, sometimes through fall.
• Leaves can be stiff and sharply pointed, ranging from 3 to 5 cm long and 4 to 7 mm wide.

Ecological Role

• The plant is drought-resistant and sun-loving.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The flowers attract pollinators.

Quirky Facts

• The leaves of the Scarlet Bottlebrush release a lemony scent when crushed.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden offers a community for sharing tips and ideas about gardens, seeds, and plants.
• The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) provides help and information on Callistemon macropunctatus (Scarlet Bottlebrush).
• TripAdvisor features photos from the National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthney, showcasing Callistemon macropunctatus (also known as Scarlet Bottlebrush).