Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush)

Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush) is an evergreen shrub with arching branches clothed with lance-shaped leaves that emerge coppery before maturing to gray-green. The leaves release a lemony scent when bruised. Bright crimson bottlebrush-like flower spikes, 4 in. long (10 cm) bloom intermittently throughout the year in frost-free areas. The blooms are a copious source of nectar for birds and hummingbirds. They give way to woody seed capsules that remain closed on the branches for years. An eye-catching specimen for a sunny shrub border or charming hedge in frost-free areas. No shrub could give a more brilliant display for so little trouble.

• Grows up to 3-25 ft. tall (180-750 cm) and 3-20 ft. wide (150-600 cm). Will grow to 15 ft. tall (4.5 m) in its native habitat and can also be trained as a tree to 25 ft. tall (7.5 cm). In northern climates, it is typically grown as a 3-5 ft. tall shrub or standard (90-150 cm).
• Easily grown in acidic, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. Drought tolerant but performs best with regular irrigation.
• Great for foundations, hedges, wall-side borders, Mediterranean gardens, city gardens, or containers.
• Virtually disease-free and pest-free. Watch for glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs and scale insects when grown under glass. Deer resistant.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed or from semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to Australia.