Flinders Ranges Bottlebrush - Callistemon teretifolius (Melaleuca orophila) seeds

Callistemon teretifolius 

A medium-sized shrub with striking bright red or orange flowers, perfect as a feature plant, screen, or informal hedge in native landscapes.

Quick Facts

• Height: 1.2–3.6 meters
• Flowering: October to December
• Soil: Clay, loam, or sand; tolerates acidic to alkaline pH
• Tolerances: Drought, lime, and moderate frost
• Wildlife Value: Attracts birds such as honeyeaters, crimson rosellas, and silvereyes

Why Grow Callistemon?

This hardy shrub is versatile for gardens and larger plantings. Its vibrant flowers add ornamental appeal while providing nectar for birds and insects. It's an excellent choice for creating informal hedges, barriers, or screens.

Bush Food Note

• Nectar: Extract the sweet nectar by sucking on the flowers or soaking them in water to make a sweet drink.
• Wildlife Benefit: Nectar-seeking birds like eastern spinebills and red wattlebirds flock to these blooms, while crimson rosellas enjoy the seeds.

How to Grow

Sowing Instructions:

• Seed Depth: Sow directly on the surface; no need to cover.
• Germination Time: 1–4 weeks.

Planting and Care:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Conditions: Adapts to most soil types, provided they are well-drained.
• Watering: Minimal once established; drought-tolerant.

Pruning:

• Lightly prune after flowering to encourage denser growth and maintain shape.

Uses in Your Garden

• Ornamental: Bright flowers bring vibrant color to native landscapes.
• Practical: Functions as an informal hedge, screen, or barrier.
• Ecological: Supports local bird and insect populations.

Germination Tips

• Timing: Sow in spring or early summer for best results.
• Surface Sowing: Do not cover seeds; they require light to germinate.

Important Note

This species is provisionally classified under schedule 1, Regulation 24.2 of the Sewerage Act. Ensure written approval before planting near streets, roads, or sewer mains. Avoid planting closer than two meters to any sewer infrastructure.

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Add this versatile and stunning native shrub to your garden. With its bright flowers, adaptability, and wildlife benefits, Callistemon is an essential addition to any landscape!