MELBOURNE STREET TREES 138 - WILLOW BOTTLEBRUSH

Callistemon salignus (willow bottlebrush) of the family Myrtaceae is found in forests and woodlands from south-east Queensland to central Victoria, usually in damp places. The name Callistemon is derived from the Greek kalos (beautiful) and stemon (stamen), while salignus is from Latin salignus (of the willow), referring to supposed similarity of the leaves to the willow, Salix.

Callistemon salignus is usually a small tree to about 7-8 metres high with soft, pendulous foliage and papery bark. A feature of the plant is the pink colour of the new growth. Leaves are elongated elliptical in shape to about 100 mm long by 5-15 mm wide.

The brushes are usually about 50 mm long and cream to white in colour but pink-flowered forms are sometimes seen in cultivation. Flowers occur in late spring to mid summer but some flowers may also appear in autumn. C. salignus is well-known as it has been grown in gardens and parks for many years. It is a hardy species which is suited to most soils, even those with less than perfect drainage. It grows best with adequate moisture but will tolerate extended dry periods once established. Propagation is easy from both seed and cuttings.

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme,
and also part of the Friday Greens meme.