Lemon Bottlebrush

Lemon bottlebrush is an evergreen Australian shrub or small tree with narrow leaves that release a citrus scent when crushed and bright red, brush-shaped flower spikes. It can be kept as a compact hedge or allowed to mature into a multi-trunked small tree, with flowering commonly reported in spring and fall. ## Form and flowering The upright branches carry dense, narrow foliage and distinctive flower brushes made up of long red stamens. NC State Extension describes plants in cultivation as commonly pruned to about 3–5 feet tall, while unpruned plants in native habitat can reach 10–15 feet; the catalog’s 10–15-foot size reflects the larger form. Kew accepts Melaleuca citrina; Callistemon citrinus remains a widely used synonym in horticultural references. ## Site and climate Plant in full sun and moist, fertile, well-drained soil. NC State lists USDA Zones 9–10 and advises winter protection in Zone 8; a container can be moved to a bright, cool sheltered space in colder regions. Established plants tolerate dry periods. In Florida, UF/IFAS classifies this species as high invasion risk in natural areas, so follow local guidance before planting near wildlands. ## Maintenance Lightly shape after flowering when needed for a hedge or compact shrub. The species tolerates pruning and can regenerate after hard pruning, but leave room for its natural form if it is grown as a small tree. Water regularly during establishment and during prolonged dry weather. Sources: [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/melaleuca-citrina/common-name/lemon-bottlebrush/), [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77108602-1), [Singapore NParks](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/2/7/2772), and [UF/IFAS Assessment](https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu/assessments/melaleuca_citrina/).