Information about plants & gardens for Brisbane & Qld

Bottlebrushes

Callistemon and Melaleuca species, hybrids and cultivars

Family: Myrtaceae

These two genera have been grouped together here because they are hard to distinguish by the ordinary gardener. Some authorities believe the two genera should be formally merged. Consequently you may find Callistemon species referred to as synonymous with Melaleuca.

Because The Queensland Herbarium has decided to accept the merger, you're especially likely to see Callistemon species listed as Melaleuca in local publications and native plant nurseries in this state.

However, this page will be sticking with "Callistemon" for the time being, given they are still widely known by this name in gardening circles.

These plants were discussed in greater detail in the 07-10-2022 edition of Get Results Gardening. If you garden in Australia, especially the warmer regions that allow you to grow tropical and subtropical plants, you will find plenty of other useful information in this weekly email publication. Find out how to get a free trial at calyx.com.au/getresultsgardening.html

Bottlebrushes in the Landscape

Click for larger images.

Callistemon 'Eureka'

Callistemon 'Little John'

Callistemon salignus 'Great Balls of Fire'

Melaleuca linariifolia 'Claret Tops'

Melaleuca thymifolia

Some other well-known and widely cultivated species and varieties

No photos yet. Callistemon citrinus

Callistemon citrinus 'Splendens' (Also sold under the name 'Endeavour')

Callistemon 'Harkness' (syn. 'Gawler Hybrid', C. citrinus X C. viminalis hybrid.)

Callistemon 'Captain Cook'

Callistemon Hannah Ray

Callistemon 'Injune'

Callistemon Kings Park Special

Callistemon pachyphyllus

Callistemon polandii

Melaleuca bracteata including Revolution Green, Revolution Gold

Melaleuca dealbata

Melaleuca irbyana

Melaleuca leucadendra

Melaleuca quinquenervia

Melaleuca styphelioides

Melaleuca thymifolia

Melaleuca viridiflora