Callistemon Little John

How to grow Callistemon Little John

To grow Callistemon 'Little John', plant it in a full sun location with well-drained soil, as this compact variety thrives in bright conditions and doesn’t tolerate heavy, waterlogged soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to support strong early growth. Water regularly during the first year to establish the roots, then reduce watering as the plant becomes drought-tolerant once mature. 'Little John' benefits from a light prune after flowering to maintain its neat, dense form and encourage more flowering. Apply a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser formulated for Australian natives in spring to promote lush growth and abundant deep red flowers. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch clear of the stem to prevent rot. Growing only about 0.8 to 1.2 metres tall and wide, 'Little John' is ideal for low hedging, borders, container planting, and adding vibrant colour to small gardens.

Where is Callistemon Little John for sale in NZ?

The Plant Company has the best Callistemon Little John 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!

What is the Callistemon Little John growth rate?

Callistemon 'Little John' has a moderate growth rate. Under good conditions (full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering during establishment), you can expect it to grow about 20 to 30 centimetres per year until it reaches its mature size of around 0.8 to 1.2 metres tall and wide. Growth may slow slightly once it becomes fully established. Regular light pruning and a spring application of low-phosphorus fertiliser will help maintain steady, healthy growth and a dense, compact form.

How to grow a Callistemon Little John hedge

To grow a Callistemon 'Little John' hedge, start by planting in a full sun location with well-drained soil, as sunlight is crucial for dense growth and good flowering. Space the plants about 50 to 80 centimetres apart to create a tight, compact hedge. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost to support healthy root establishment. Water the plants regularly during the first year to help them settle in, then gradually reduce watering as they become drought-tolerant. Lightly prune the tops and sides after each flowering flush to encourage bushiness and maintain a uniform shape — 'Little John' responds well to regular light trimming. Feed the hedge with a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser designed for natives in early spring to keep it healthy and vibrant. Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, making sure not to pile mulch against the stems. With consistent pruning and care, a 'Little John' hedge will form a neat, colourful, and low-maintenance border.

What height does Callistemon Little John grow to?

Callistemon 'Little John' typically grows to about 0.8 to 1.2 metres tall and spreads to around 1 to 1.5 metres wide. It is naturally compact and bushy, making it ideal for low hedges, borders, and container planting. With regular light pruning, you can easily maintain it at the lower end of its height range if a tidier, more formal look is desired.