Callistemon Captain Cook

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

Bottle Brush Captain Cook, Callistemon viminalis Captain Cook

Callistemon Captain Cook is a shorter variety of the commonly known, Bottlebrush, and is renowned for its bright red, bottlebrush-like flowers from spring through autumn. It grows as a dense, bushy shrub with a spreading, and somewhat pendulous habit to about 1.5 m tall and 1.2 m wide. This variety makes a striking feature when planted against a wall or in a large container. It is also very effective when grown as a specimen, trimmed into a hedge, or added to a mixed planting.

Callistemon Captain Cook is currently unavailable, but we do have other other amazing species and varieties of Callistemon available.

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Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:	All regions
Plant type:	Shrubs
Height:	1.50 m
Spread:	1.20 m
Flowering time:	Spring, Autumn, Winter
Tolerances:	Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses:	Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:	Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as	Bottle Brush Captain Cook, Callistemon viminalis Captain Cook

How to grow the Callistemon Captain Cook Bottlebrush

To grow Callistemon 'Captain Cook', select a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil, as this bottlebrush thrives in full sun and is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to support strong early growth. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots, then reduce watering once it is established, as 'Captain Cook' is drought-tolerant. Lightly prune after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape and encourage more prolific blooming the next season. Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser for Australian natives in spring to promote healthy growth and vibrant red flowers. Mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid piling mulch against the stem. ‘Captain Cook’ is hardy, tolerates light frosts, and is an excellent choice for hedging, screening, or creating a colourful focal point in the garden.

What is the size and height of Callistemon Captain Cook?

Callistemon 'Captain Cook' typically grows to about 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall and around 1.5 to 2 metres wide when mature. It has a naturally dense, bushy form, making it ideal for hedging or as a feature shrub. With regular light pruning after flowering, you can easily maintain it at a smaller, more compact size if needed.

Care tips for Callistemon Captain Cook

Callistemon 'Captain Cook' is a hardy and easy-care plant, but it thrives best with a few simple care practices. Plant it in a sunny position with well-drained soil, and water regularly during its first year to help it establish a strong root system. Once established, it becomes drought-tolerant and only requires occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain its dense, bushy shape and encourages more prolific blooming in the following season. Feeding with a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser designed for natives in early spring will promote healthy growth and vibrant red flowers. Applying mulch around the base will help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds, but be careful not to pile mulch against the stem. 'Captain Cook' tolerates light frosts, coastal conditions, and moderate winds, making it a robust choice for a range of garden styles. Regular care will keep it looking lush and full of stunning colour year after year.

Where is Callistemon Captain Cook for sale in NZ

The Plant Company has the best Callistemon Captain Cook plants for sale. Our NZ production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your plant and grass needs and impress you with both our products and service!