Callistemon citrinus

Growing Callistemon citrinus Successfully in NZ

Callistemon citrinus grows well in NZ's temperate climate with well-drained soil. Understanding its light and water needs ensures optimal growth.

Callistemon citrinus Care Tips

Water moderately, prune regularly to maintain shape, and mulch to conserve moisture. This will keep plants healthy and vibrant.

Plant Size and Spacing

Callistemon citrinus typically grows to 3 m tall and 2.5 m wide. Allow adequate spacing for air circulation and growth.

Why Buy Callistemon citrinus from The Plant Company

The Plant Company supplies premium NZ-grown plants with expert advice and free delivery nationwide. Our plants are suited to local conditions and backed by our guarantee.

What is the Callistemon citrinus family?

Callistemon citrinus belongs to the Myrtaceae family. This is a large family of flowering plants that also includes well-known genera like Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, and Leptospermum. Plants in the Myrtaceae family are typically rich in essential oils, have aromatic foliage, and are often well-adapted to drought and fire-prone environments.

When does Callistemon citrinus flower?

Callistemon citrinus typically flowers in spring and early summer, with its main blooming period usually from September to December in the Southern Hemisphere (New Zealand and Australia). In some climates, especially with good conditions, it can also produce a secondary flush of flowers in autumn. The bright red bottlebrush flowers are highly attractive to birds and pollinators, adding vibrant colour to gardens during these seasons.

How to grow a Callistemon citrinus hedge

Growing an amazing Callistemon citrinus hedge starts with determining how far apart to space the plants. As a general guide, 50 cm between the plants is the ideal spacing for this hedge. If you want the hedge to fill in faster, you can close up the spacing to 40 cm. However, going wider than 50 cm will have two effects. The first is that the gap between the plants at the base will be harder to fill in. The second is that the plants will tend to grow wider rather than upward. At a closer spacing the plants compete for light, and in doing so, push each other upwards. The Plant Company recommends a 40-50 cm spacing to achieve an amazing hedge.