Callistemon citrinus |
Origin: Eastern Coast of Australia
Zone Range: 7-10
Preferred Situation: Sunny, well draining ordinary soil.
Harvest Date: Sunday 18 February, 2007
Description:
A medium sized (2m x 2m) woody evergreen shrub with crimson bottle brush like fragrant flowers that are much loved by hummingbirds. The long, narrow, lance like dark green stiff leaves have a citrus scent when crushed. Along its medium grey/brown coloured stems are neat woody seed pods that for ever remind me of the suction cups on octopus tenticles.
Notes:
A great accent plant for container, specimen and hedges. Can be pruned severely to keep a nice size or shape. Is very tolerant of many soil types but does best in heavy, evenly moist soil and lots of sun. Doesn't like intense shade. Moderately frost tolerant. If you can grow Arbutus in your area, this will do well.
Cultivation:
The best and most common method for germinating Callistemons is the "bog method" where the seeded pot is placed into a saucer of water and kept moist until germination occurs. This results in moisture reaching the seeds by capillary action and ensures that the seeds do not dry out. Avoid watering from above. Sow, press seed into moist medium surface and provide some light. Germinates in 7-21 days at 25 C.
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