Callistemon is a genus of shrubs in the family Myrtaceae, first described as a genus in 1814. The entire genus is endemic to Australia but widely cultivated in many other regions and naturalised in scattered locations. Their status as a separate taxon is in doubt, some authorities accepting that the difference between callistemons and melaleucas is not sufficient for them to be grouped in a separate genus.
Description
Callistemon species have commonly been referred to as bottlebrushes because of their cylindrical, brush like flowers resembling a traditional bottle brush. They are mostly found in the more temperate regions of Australia, especially along the east coast and typically favour moist conditions so when planted in gardens thrive on regular watering. However, two species are found in Tasmania and several others in the south-west of Western Australia. At least some species are drought-resistant and some are used in ornamental landscaping elsewhere in the world.
Cultivation
Bottlebrush seed capsules
Callistemon citrinus
Callistemon pallidus
Callistemon viminalis
Callistemon viminalis in suburban Adelaide, South Australia.
Callistemon viminalis
Bottlebrush or Little John -- Dwarf Callistemon
Not a lot of care is required. Only moderate watering is needed and they do best in deep, lighter soil. It is recommended to cut the flowers off as they wilt and cut the whole tree back every few years. When cutting back, a third should be cut at most. They do best in milder climates, since heavy frost can be damaging to them.
Taxonomy
The Latin name Callistemon comes from the combination of 2 Greek words of 'callis' meaning beauty and 'stemon' meaning stamen, referring to the flowers of the plant.
The genus Callistemon was first formally described in 1814 by Robert Brown. In his description he noted that the genus includes “those species of Metrosideros that have inflorescence similar to that of Melaleuca, and distinct elongated filaments.” Carl Linnaeus had described the...
