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callistemon tree

The callistemon tree, also known as the bottlebrush tree, is a striking addition to New Zealand gardens. Valued for its vibrant brush-like flowers and hardy nature, the callistemon tree creates year-round visual interest while attracting native birds and pollinators. Whether you’re seeking a showy feature plant, a hedge, or a container specimen, Callistemon are renowned for their versatility, drought tolerance, and easy care. Below, you’ll find practical tips on planting, care, and recommended varieties for gardens across Aotearoa.

callistemon-viminalis-1

Callistemon viminalis

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Callistemon viminalis (Weeping Bottlebrush) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its pendulous branches and vibrant red bottlebrush flowers. Blooming from spring into summer, the striking flowers attract birds and add bold colour to New Zealand gardens.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 8.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
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Callistemon 'Red Alert'

Callistemon 'Red Alert' is a compact evergreen shrub admired for its brilliant red bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The vivid blooms create a bold splash of colour against fine green foliage and attract birds to the garden.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
Callistemon citrinus (Red Bottlebrush) shrub covered in elegant, red flowers.
Callistemon citrinus (Lemon Scented Bottlebrush)

Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush) is a classic Australian shrub widely loved in New Zealand for its brilliant crimson red flower spikes and...

From$27.53
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Callistemon 'Better John'

Callistemon 'Better John' is a hardy evergreen shrub valued for its dense green foliage and vibrant red bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring...

From$37.19
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Callistemon 'Slim' (Slim Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Slim' is a narrow growing evergreen shrub admired for its vibrant red bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The...

From$27.53
Callistemon 'Little John' shrub in a courtyard garden covered in elegant, red flowers.
Callistemon 'Little John'

Callistemon 'Little John' is a compact dwarf bottlebrush celebrated for its deep red flowers and fine blue green foliage. Flowering from spring into...

From$27.53
Callistemon 'Rocky Rambler' ground cover plant with creeping stems with green foliage and red flowers.
Callistemon 'Rocky Rambler' (Red Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Rocky Rambler' is a compact, spreading bottlebrush known for its vibrant red flower spikes and fine evergreen foliage. This variety...

From$27.53
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Callistemon 'Hot Pink' (Pink Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Hot Pink' is a vibrant evergreen shrub admired for its eye catching hot pink bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer...

From$27.53
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Callistemon 'Candy Floss' (Pink Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Candy Floss' is a delightful evergreen shrub admired for its soft pink bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The...

From$27.53
Callistemon 'Burgundy Jack' shrub with purple flowers.
Callistemon 'Burgundy Jack' (Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Burgundy Jack' is a striking bottlebrush renowned for its vivid burgundy red flower spikes and fine evergreen foliage. Blooming from...

From$27.53
Callistemon 'Genoa Glory' shrub covered in pretty, red flowers.
Callistemon 'Genoa Glory' (Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Genoa Glory' is a striking bottlebrush variety known for its vivid crimson red flower spikes and lush evergreen foliage. Flowering from...

From$27.53
Callistemon citrinus 'Red Cluster' small tree with masses of red, pendulous flowers.
Callistemon 'Red Cluster' (Red Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'Red Cluster' is a striking bottlebrush variety valued for its clusters of vivid red flower spikes and dense evergreen foliage. Flowering...

From$37.19
Callistemon citrinus 'White Anzac' white flowers amidst green foliage.
Callistemon 'White Anzac' (White Bottlebrush)

Callistemon 'White Anzac' is a low growing spreading bottlebrush known for its elegant white flower brushes that appear from late spring through...

From$27.53
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
Tabebuia rosea tree with masses of pink flowers.
Tabebuia rosea (Pink Poui)

Tabebuia rosea is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its masses of soft pink trumpet shaped blooms that appear before the foliage in spring...

From$65.55
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

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Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

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Tree Guards (Tree Guards)

Our tree guards and plant shelters are bio-degradable products that are perfect for using in riparian areas and other exposed positions. They are...

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Fruit Tree Fertiliser (Fruit Tree Fertiliser)

Fruiting plants respond well to fruit tree fertiliser with better quality produce, higher yields, and a much healthier and brighter looking plant...

From$16.95
jute-tree-tie-1
Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
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Palm Tree Fertiliser (Palm Tree Fertiliser)

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

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callistemon-salignus-
Callistemon salignus (Willow Bottlebrush)

Callistemon salignus (White Bottlebrush) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its creamy white bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into...

OUT OF STOCK
callistemon-clearview-white-
Callistemon 'Clearview White' (White Bottle Brush Tree)

Callistemon 'Clearview White' is a graceful evergreen shrub admired for its pure white bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The...

OUT OF STOCK
callistemon-endeavour-
Callistemon 'Endeavour'

Callistemon 'Endeavour' is a hardy evergreen shrub admired for its large rich red bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The bold...

OUT OF STOCK
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Callistemon 'Little Jet'

Callistemon 'Little Jet' is a compact evergreen shrub admired for its deep red bottlebrush flowers that appear from spring into summer. The rich...

OUT OF STOCK
Callistemon viminalis

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Callistemon, or related Categories - Evergreen Shrubs, and Evergreen Trees.

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Why Grow a Callistemon Tree?

The callistemon tree’s vivid flowers, generally red but also seen in shades of white, pink, and green, resemble a bottlebrush and bloom from late spring through summer. These blossoms offer a reliable nectar source for tui, bellbirds, and bees, making callistemon a top pick for wildlife-friendly planting. Their evergreen foliage and adaptability to coastal wind, light frost, and dry conditions make the species ideal for a broad range of New Zealand sites.

Popular Callistemon Varieties

Gardeners in New Zealand can choose from a wonderful diversity of callistemon trees and shrubs, each bringing its own flair to the landscape. Some top picks include the slender-leaved Callistemon salignus (Willow Bottlebrush), noted for its elegant weeping habit and creamy white flower brushes. If you fancy cascading red blooms, Callistemon viminalis is a classic choice that suits everything from privacy screens to specimen plantings. For a unique touch, Callistemon 'Clearview White' (White Bottle Brush Tree) offers pure white flowers, perfect for contemporary and cottage gardens alike.

For compact spaces, vibrant options include Callistemon 'Endeavour', prized for its rich red blooms, and the bold, upright Callistemon 'Red Alert'.

How to Grow and Care for Callistemon

Callistemon trees thrive in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They prefer well-drained soils and benefit from regular watering until established. Once mature, most callistemons are remarkably drought tolerant. Add mulch in spring to retain moisture and enrich the soil. Pruning after flowering encourages a bushier form and more prolific blooms the following season.

If you’re planting a callistemon as a screen or hedge, space individual plants about 1 to 1.5 metres apart. Most callistemon trees respond well to clipping, allowing you to shape them to suit your needs.

Landscape Uses for Bottlebrush Trees

From urban courtyards to rural shelterbelts, the callistemon tree adapts easily. Use as a stunning specimen tree in lawn areas, mass plant as a flowering hedge, or grow in large containers on patios. The tree’s resilience to wind and salt spray makes it a great choice for coastal gardens, while its low maintenance nature and all-season interest benefit busy homeowners.

Find Your Perfect Callistemon Tree

Transform your outdoor space with the vibrant colour and low-fuss appeal of a callistemon tree. Explore premium varieties including Callistemon salignus (Willow Bottlebrush), Callistemon viminalis, Callistemon 'Clearview White' (White Bottle Brush Tree), Callistemon 'Endeavour', and Callistemon 'Red Alert' to discover the ideal match for your garden. With their robust beauty and ecological value, callistemon trees are an inspired choice for Kiwi gardeners.


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