General Description:

Callistemon is a genus of around 50 species, all of which are found naturally only in Australia.  Some authorities now include Callistemon in the related genus Melaleuca, but this classification is not universally accepted (see footnote box). Numerous named cultivars of Callistemon are available.

Callistemon linearis is a small to medium sized shrub from about 1 – 3 metres high. It has very narrow leaves up to 100-120 mm long, with a rigid point. In general appearance, it has some similarity to C.pinifolius (both species having narrow leaves), although the flowers of the latter are usually pale green (and only occasionally red) in contrast with the deep red of C.linearis. The geographical range of both species overlaps.

C.linearis has been cultivated for many years but is not especially common in gardens. Like C.pinifolius, it seems more resistant to attacks by sawfly larvae than the broader leafed species. The plant responds to annual fertilising after flowering and may be pruned severely if necessary. Many callistemons can tolerate less than perfect drainage but usually perform best in gardens with reasonable drainage and regular availability of water.

Propagation is easy from both seed and cuttings.