Red Bottlebrush

Callistemon citrinus

Biological Classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Spermatophyta
Sub-Division: Angiospermae
Class: Dicotyledonae
Sub-Class: Polypetalae
Series: Calyciflorae
Order: Myrtales
Family: Myrtaceae
Sub-Family: --
Genus: Callistemon
Species: citrinus

Advantages

It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in many gardens for its attractive, bright red flowers.

Interesting Facts

  • The Genus name comes from two Greek words "Kalli" meaning beautiful, and "stemon" referring to the Stamens (Pollen producing part of flower). This is a reference to the plant's showy, brush-like flowers.
  • The specific name means a "lemon", which refers to the plant's foliage, which has a strong lemon scent when bruised.

Description

  • The leaves are lanceolate and aromatic.
  • The flowering season is from February to April.
  • Callistemon citrinus (Curt.) Skeels.