About

Callistemon citrinus is a perennial shrub that can grow up to approximately 5 meters in height. Its foliage consists of narrow, elongated leaves that emit a lemon fragrance when crushed. In summer, the plant produces vibrant red flowers that are clustered in cylindrical spikes, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length.

About the genus

Callistemon consists of evergreen shrubs characterized by their fragrant, narrow to lanceolate leaves. These plants produce distinctive bottlebrush-like flower spikes, where the elongated, vividly colored stamens are particularly noticeable.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs, Conservatory Greenhouse
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Fragrance
Foliage

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a sheltered position in full sun with a moist but well-drained soil
Pruning
Pruning group 8
Propagation
Propagate by seed or from semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to scale insect, mealy bug and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus