Weeping Bottlebrush
callistemon viminalis
Also known as: ["Weeping Bottlebrush","Candlebrush"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub native to Australia, known for its distinctive weeping habit and vibrant red bottlebrush flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Callistemon |
| Botanical Name: | Callistemon viminalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"7–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateModerate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; prune lower branches to allow light penetration; avoid placing near large shade-casting objects.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize after pruning; use a low-phosphorus formula for flowering plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage in temperatures below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCallistemon viminalis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCallistemon viminalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCallistemon viminalis, commonly known as weeping bottlebrush, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Callistemon viminalis be watered?
A: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then reduce watering once established.
Q: Does Callistemon viminalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Callistemon viminalis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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