Weeping Bottlebrush

The Weeping bottlebrush is a native to Australia. It was formerly known as Callistemon viminalis. The difference between the two species lay in whether the stamens are bundled or not. Common names include: Red Cascade, Crimson Bottlebrush, Treur botteborsel (Africa) and Cheel (India).

This tropical tree can grow to a height of 20'. It has numerous slender branches which droop much like the Willow tree. The bark of the tree is light brown and unsmooth. The narrow bronze-green leaves are lanceolate in shape and extend to about 4" long. When mature, the leaves turn a dull green in color. These hang from pendulous branches that sway in the wind. Bright red stamens form the flowers which grow along the branch forming a cylinder up to 6". The flowers look like the brushes used to clean bottles. After the flowers mature, they form into woody capsules.

The Weeping bottlebrush flowers in the spring and grows well in full sun. Propagation is by cutting.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Leaves used as a tea to treat gastroenteritis and diseases of the skin (Jamaica)
• Flowers used to sweeten tea (Australia)
• Flowers and leaves used to make dyes (Australia)
• Properties: antibacterial, antifungal