Callistemon Laevis 7.5L

Callistemon viminalis ‘Laevis’ 7.5L Pot

Plant Fact File:

• Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub or Small Tree
• Botanical Name: Callistemon viminalis ‘Laevis’
• Common Name: Bottlebrush, Weeping Bottlebrush
• Container Size: 7.5 Litre Pot
• Mature Height: 3-5 m (10-16 feet)
• Mature Spread: 2-3 m (6-10 feet)
• Flower Color: Bright red
• Flower Form: Bottlebrush-like spikes
• Scent: Light fragrance
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer, with possible sporadic blooming
• Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves
• Hardiness: Frost tender (USDA zones 9-11)
• Aspect: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-draining soil, adaptable to a range of soil types
• Uses: Specimen plant, borders, coastal gardens, containers, hedges

Description:

Callistemon viminalis ‘Laevis’, commonly known as Bottlebrush or Weeping Bottlebrush, is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree that is prized for its unique, bright red, bottlebrush-like flower spikes. These flowers appear primarily in late spring to early summer, with the potential for additional sporadic blooms throughout the year. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers.

Reaching a mature height of 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) and a spread of 2-3 meters (6-10 feet), ‘Laevis’ is suitable for a variety of garden uses, including as a specimen plant, in borders, coastal gardens, containers, or even as a hedge. It thrives in full sun and is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-draining. Although frost tender, it is well-suited to warmer climates within USDA zones 9-11.

Key Features:

• Unique Flowers: Bright red, bottlebrush-like flower spikes that attract pollinators.
• Evergreen Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves provide year-round interest.
• Versatile Size: Reaches a mature height of 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) and a spread of 2-3 meters (6-10 feet), suitable for various garden settings.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
• Adaptable: Tolerant of a range of soil types as long as they are well-draining.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for specimen planting, borders, coastal gardens, containers, and hedges.

Planting Tips:

• Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and incorporate organic matter into the soil if needed.
• Plant Callistemon viminalis ‘Laevis’ at the same depth as it was in its container and backfill with soil.
• Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant is established.
• Once established, Callistemon is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during extended dry periods.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
• Protect from frost, especially in younger plants or during unexpected cold snaps. Consider container planting for ease of moving indoors if necessary.