Scarlet bottlebrush

Scarlet bottlebrush

Botanical name: Callistemon citrinus

Common Name: English: Scarlet bottlebrush, Lemon bottlebrush

Origin:Australia, New Zealand; naturalized in Kenya

The Scarlet bottlebrush is a vibrant beauty. It has compact evergreen tree reaching up to 6 meters in height, adorned with gracefully drooping foliage. Its bark, initially grey and smooth, matures into a furrowed texture over time. The leaves, narrow and resilient, measure up to 8cm and emit a delightful lemon scent when crushed, with young leaves displaying shades of pink-green. Be captivated by its striking crimson bottlebrush-like flowers, characterized by cylindrical spikes formed by long red stamens, irresistibly attracting birds and bees with their abundant nectar. Even after flowering, leafy shoots persist, ensuring continuous growth. Witness the formation of small woody capsules that endure for months, often nestled within the thickening branches.

Uses: This versatile species finds uses in various applications, serving as a source of firewood, charcoal, and traditional medicine extracted from its bark. Additionally, it functions as valuable bee forage, ornamental foliage, and an effective windbreak.

Notes: Scarlet bottlebrush boasts a wide range of cultivars and flower colors, including pink, white, mauve, and red, reflecting its inherent variability. Its botanical epithet, “citrinus,” alludes to the subtle lemon fragrance emitted by crushed leaves.

Belonging to the Australian genus Callistemon, which encompasses approximately 30 species primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes in urban settings, homesteads, streets, and parks, this species exemplifies the genus’s appeal. Its nectar-rich flowers entice a myriad of avian and insect visitors, contributing to its ecological significance. Given the genetic proximity among many Callistemon species, natural hybridization is commonplace.