Callistemon Common name: Bottlebrush	Indicates sun requirement      Full sun      Half sun      Semi-shade      Shade   Indicates Water requirement         High water requirement.     Water every 1-2 days.          Medium water requirement.     Water every 3-7 days.          Low water requirement.     Water every 7-14 days.
Description Shrubs or small trees (2-6 m) with brush-like flowers in shades of cream, yellow, pink and red. Blooms in spring and early summer. The attractive flowers are rich in nectar and attract insects and honey-eating birds to your garden. Many variations are grown.
Growing Callistemon needs a sunny position (full sun to half sun). It is a very hardy plant and adaptable to both wet and dry conditions. It also has a good tolerance to salty soils. It will grow in most soil types. Can be propagated from seed, by sowing it on light, sandy soil, barely covered. In some species the seed capsules do not open for years unless they are in a warm place. Tip cuttings can be taken in spring or autumn and placed in sand and peatmoss mixed at the ratio of 3:1. Callistemon becomes straggly and woody with age, therefore regular pruning each year is recommended. Fertilising is most beneficial and so is mulching, especially if the plant is still young. All climates but the coldest.