Callistemon Citrinus, Bottle Brush - 0.5 kg Seeds

The Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree grown across India for its striking cylindrical spikes of bright red flowers, made up of long, showy stamens that resemble a bottle-cleaning brush. Its narrow, leathery leaves are aromatic with a lemon scent when crushed, and the plant flushes coppery before settling to deep green.

Native to Australia, it has become a popular garden, avenue and screen plant throughout the Indian plains and hills, tolerating a range of soils and some waterlogging. It is valued mainly as a flowering ornamental and informal hedge, and its nectar-rich blooms attract birds, bees and butterflies through much of the year.

• Family: Myrtaceae
• Native region: Australia
• Mature height: 3-10 m
• Growth rate: Moderate

The seed is extremely fine and is released from small woody capsules, so sow it thinly on the surface of a moist, well-drained seed mix and do not cover it. Keep the tray lightly and consistently moist in a warm, bright spot; germination usually takes 2-4 weeks. Prick out the tiny seedlings once they are large enough to handle and grow them on before planting out.