Species

Callistemon viminalisWeeping Bottlebrush

7 other cultivars

shrub

Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush

Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook'

The Story

Plant Bio

Callistemon viminalis, the weeping bottlebrush, is a riparian Australian shrub or small tree characterized by pendulous branches and narrow, lanceolate leaves. The species produces dense cylindrical spikes of bright red stamens that resemble kitchen bottle brushes, blooming primarily from spring into summer.

'Captain Cook' is a compact, dwarf cultivar that maintains a dense, rounded form reaching five to six feet in height and width. It is distinguished by its pronounced weeping habit and new foliage that emerges with a distinct reddish-pink tint.

Uses & Benefits:

Features a compact weeping form with bright red bottlebrush flowers and pink-tinged new growth.

Offers high drought tolerance and adapts well to coastal conditions and high humidity.

Provides a rich nectar source that attracts hummingbirds and beneficial insects.

SpeciesCallistemon viminalisWeeping Bottlebrush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72"

Width

72"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with well-drained soil, though the plant tolerates occasional wet periods.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at the same depth as it was in the container.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support optimal flowering, avoiding high-phosphorus formulas if companion plants are sensitive.

Pro Tip

Prune immediately after the main flowering flush, taking care never to cut back into old, leafless wood; mature stems lack active dormant buds and will fail to regenerate.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune lightly right after the main flowering cycle to encourage dense branching.
Water regularly during dry spells to maximize flower production.
Protect young plants from severe frosts below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Don't

Do not shear heavily or cut back into bare, woody stems.
Do not plant in deep shade, which reduces flowering and causes leggy growth.
Do not over-fertilize, as excessive nutrients can ruin the compact form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

HedgeSpecimen PlantCoastal GardenContainer PlantingFoundation Planting

Companion Plants

Salvia leucantha Rosmarinus officinalis Agave americana

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush questions

What zones can Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush grow in?

Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush bloom?

Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush need full sun?

Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Captain Cook Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.