Callistemon rigidus

Callistemon rigidus — Stiff Bottlebrush

A tough, evergreen Aussie shrub with rigid, narrow leaves and striking red bottlebrush flowers that draw in birds and pollinators. Flowers mainly in late spring–summer, with bonus blooms in warmer climates. Grows upright and bushy, handles drought, coastal conditions, and cold down to –10°C. Great for borders, feature planting, or a hardy shrub in full sun.

• Size: Up to 6 m in ideal conditions; smaller (90–150 cm) in cooler climates.

• Care: Prune after flowering, feed annually, water during dry spells.

• Propagation: Seed or semi‑hardwood cuttings.

• Pests: Generally trouble‑free and deer‑resistant.