12 One of the toughest native plants is the bottlebrush. They can be seen flowering along local motorways in the most difficult conditions, and in windswept coastal gardens. In the wild many grow along creek lines, inundated in times of flood. They also grow from rock crevices in high mountain areas. Such a versatile species can be trusted to handle a variety of growing conditions in residential and public gardens. The first and most obvious feature is the flower spikes, which comprise of multiple individual flowers. The long, fine male anthers are in clusters around the stem of the spike. The golden pollen is at the tip of the filament, adding extra colour. They come in a variety of colours including red, crimson, pink, mauve, lemon, cream, green and white. Growth habit varies from spreading ground covers, to small or large shrubs and also tall trees. Selecting the right one in the nursery is made easy by informative labels which will give the average size. They respond to pruning, but it should be undertaken wisely. To maintain shape prune immediately following flowering, removing any woody seed capsules that have developed. This will almost guarantee double the volume of flowers next season. Alternatively tip prune when new growth appears. This method may impact on the next seasons flowering, but it’s sometimes worthwhile to keep the desired shape. If a bottlebrush becomes misshapen, or woody, cutting back low to the ground can sometimes produce results. If attempting this type of pruning make sure plenty of additional water and a dose of fertiliser is provided. Never prune this way when there’s a risk of very cold weather, frost or extreme dry. The origin of the name bottlebrush is fairly obvious as they do look just like the brushes used to clean the inside of bottles. The botanic name is not so simple. Known for many years by the genus name Callistemon, it was first collected growing along the Endeavour River, Cooktown in 1770 on Cook’s voyage, and sketched by artist Sydney Parkinson. German botanist Joseph Gartnaer first named the collected species Metrosideros viminalis in 1788, but it was later corrected to a new Genus - Callistemon. Several years ago the Genus Callistemon was reclassified into the Genus Melaleuca (commonly known as paperbarks). The flowers have very common characteristics and it’s not unusual for plants to be re-classified. It can be quite frustrating for gardeners! While the name and its changes are interesting, it’s the beautiful flowers that make bottlebrushes appealing. The nectar is food for birds, bees and butterflies so it is also a valuable habitat plant. If you’re looking for something tough as well as beautiful this is the one. Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant 0417 294 778 A Touch of Grass Garden Care GARDEN CLEANUPS / REJUVENATION & MAKEOVERS A SPECIALTY We offer an experienced, professional and reliable service Call Jeremy on ... Est. Gold Coast since 2001 We’ll bring your garden back to life - creating a refreshed space where you can relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings * Garden Care * Plant Selection * Soft Landscaping Get your garden looking good for Christmas festivities NOW!
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