
Callistemon
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
Bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.) is an Australian evergreen shrub or small tree producing distinctive bright red, brush-like flower spikes that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. Note: avoid the weeping form Melaleuca viminalis, which is considered potentially invasive in Florida; Callistemon citrinus (Red Bottlebrush) is the recommended species for NE Florida landscapes, hardy in zones 9a–11. Starting at $14.95.
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Bottlebrush thrives in full sun; at least 6 hours of direct sun daily produces the best bloom. It adapts to a wide range of NE Florida soils and tolerates reflected heat well.
Very drought-tolerant once established; water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce to occasional deep watering. Avoid waterlogged soils, which promote crown and root rot.
Tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils but requires good drainage; does not perform well in very alkaline or poorly drained sites. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to maintain dark green foliage and flower color.

Shares 7 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 7 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 7 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.

Shares 7 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, salt tolerance, deer resistance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Bottlebrush is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 3-15 feet × 8-12 feet (can be pruned smaller).
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.