Callistemon Splendens

The bottlebrush is one of the most recognisable and rewarding native genera for Perth gardens. The characteristic cylindrical brushes of red, pink, white, or green flowers are magnetic to honeyeaters and other nectar-feeding birds, and the plants themselves are tough, drought tolerant once established, and highly responsive to pruning. Full sun. Well-drained soil. Low-phosphorus native fertiliser only. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage next season's flowers. Splendens is a selection of Callistemon citrinus, carrying crimson brushes in spring and into summer.