Several types of the plant genus Callistemon, or
bottlebrush, are common sights in many local grounds. In fact, there are
several species well-adapted to Southwest Florida that have been grown here
successfully for many years. This article will highlight the Weeping
Bottlebrush, Callistemon viminalis – a tree sure to add interest to any
landscape.
The mature Weeping Bottlebrush in full bloom is a spectacular
sight! This is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow to about twenty
feet in height and width. This tree is best used in full sun and needs a
moist, but still well drained soil, as the roots will rot in a wet
location. While a good yard tree, the weeping habit and pendulous
branches should be kept in mind if cars are parked nearby or if people must
pass by the planting site. It is this weeping habit, however, that makes
this tree so spectacular. Just like many other “weeping” trees, the branches
hang downward with limber twigs displayed in an almost umbrella-like
fashion. Weeping trees are normally mutations that were discovered
and cultivated – some may even be grafted to accentuate the weeping
appearance. One particularly excellent cultivar of weeping bottlebrush is
'Red Cascade' which has large red flowers from March through July with lesser
blossoming the rest of the year. Even without flowers, this parasol-like
tree is amazing.
This bottlebrush is an excellent hummingbird plant with very
bright red flower spikes that are a natural attractant to these birds.
The flowers make a real show in season and are followed by long-lasting,
interesting fruit capsules. The plant is evergreen and does not produce a
litter problem. This bottlebrush is also very drought tolerant once
established. The weeping bottlebrush, like other bottlebrush trees, does
not tolerate soil that is too alkaline, however.
Take a closer look at this eye-catching woody plant.
Once you have seen the brilliant flower display and graceful weeping nature,
you will be convinced that this bottlebrush, a Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
plant, will make your landscape complete! For more information on all types
of flowering trees, please call our Master Gardener volunteers on the Plant
Lifeline on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 to 4 pm at 764-4340 for
gardening help and insight into their role as an Extension volunteer.
Don't forget to visit our other County Plant Clinics in the area. Please
check this link for a complete list of site locations, dates and times - http://charlotte.ifas.ufl.edu/horticulture/Plant%20Clinics%20Schedule.pdf.
Resources:
Gilman, E. F. & Watson, D. G. (2014) Callistemon
viminalis 'Red Cascade' Weeping Bottlebrush, The University of Florida
Extension Service, IFAS.
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection
& Landscape Design (2010) the University of Florida Extension Service,
IFAS.
Christman, S. (2007) Callistemon viminalis. Floridata.com,
Tallahassee, FL.
I love how this tree has been named the weeping bottlebrush as it really does look just like that. The bright red flowers that grow on the tress are very eye catching.
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