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Plant of the day · Saturday 17 October 2026

Crimson Bottlebrush

Melaleuca citrina

Crimson Bottlebrush

Bright red blooms and a citrus scent make this easy shrub a garden favorite.

The Crimson Bottlebrush is an adaptable evergreen shrub that fits beautifully into sunny outdoor spaces. It grows into a rounded, bushy shape, reaching between 1.5 and 3.5 meters tall. You can pair it with companion plants like grevillea, kangaroo paw, waxflower, or flannel flower.

This shrub is easy to care for and grows at a moderate rate. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and needs very little water once established. Because it is drought tolerant and safe for humans and pets, it makes a hassle-free addition to the yard.

During spring, the plant puts on a brilliant show with dense, brush-like spikes of bright red stamens. These vibrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and nectar-feeding birds to your garden. As a bonus, crushing the narrow leaves releases a fresh citrus fragrance.

easy carefull sunlow water

Grow it in your garden

Add it to your Bozlea garden and get watering, feeding and pruning built around your soil and weather. Free to start.

Full care guide in the app