Species stiff bottlebrush
Green leaves and buds with red flowers, yellow anthers on green stems and green leaves.

stiff bottlebrush

Callistemon rigidus

The stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) is an amazing plant species for its hardy qualities and dramatic appearance. Its stiff, upright stems are topped with disordered leaves and bright red flowers, creating a wild and eye-catching silhouette. The species is an icon of the Australian landscape, found in dry scrub and open woodlands from Victoria to New South Wales. Its ability to grow in harsh conditions and its striking form make it a popular garden choice. It's a brilliant addition to any garden, whether it's in a sunny or shaded spot.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 10

Flowers:

Red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) plants should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Water thoroughly each time, ensuring that the entire root system is saturated. Allow the soil to dry out between watering, and avoid over-watering. During the growing season (spring and summer), water as often as once a week; apply enough water to keep the top soil from drying out completely for approximately 7-10 days. During cooler months, water every 2 weeks.

sunlight

Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) will do best in full sun or at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. The hottest part of the day optimizes flowering. This plant also benefits from some afternoon shade in areas with very hot summers. The morning sun helps the plant dry out after rainfall, which helps to prevent fungal diseases from forming. Planting the stiff bottlebrush in sun or partial shade is recommended in areas with hot and dry climates.

pruning

Stiff bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) is a dense, woody shrub that typically reaches up to 2 meters in height and width. Pruning this species is beneficial for keeping its shape and size. It is recommended to do a light pruning in late winter, just before growth starts. Pruning should be done before new shoots develop and flower buds begin to form. Remove any dead, diseased or broken branches and shape the tree into desired form. Heavy pruning could also be performed in late winter and early spring. However, it is suggested to prune only 20% of the plant during heavy pruning.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Callistemon rigidus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Callistemon rigidus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map