Species

Callistemon viminalisWeeping Bottlebrush

3 other cultivars

shrub

Captain Cook Bottlebrush

Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook'

The Story

Plant Bio

Callistemon viminalis, the weeping bottlebrush, is an evergreen Australian shrub or small tree native to riparian zones and watercourses of eastern Australia. The species is characterised by its pendulous branches and cylindrical spikes of bright red stamens that resemble traditional bottle brushes.

'Captain Cook' is a compact, dwarf cultivar selected as a chance seedling in the 1980s that grows as a dense, rounded shrub. It features narrow, linear leaves that emerge with pinkish tones before maturing to deep green, and produces abundant scarlet flower spikes up to 15 centimetres long.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces dense, compact growth with weeping branch tips and bright scarlet flower spikes that provide strong visual interest.

Functions as a low-maintenance hedge, windbreak, or container specimen that tolerates coastal conditions and wet soils.

Attracts nectar-feeding native birds, bees, and butterflies, while providing dense nesting habitat for small birds.

SpeciesCallistemon viminalisWeeping Bottlebrush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Native To

Eastern Australia (parent species)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Early summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to light shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth.
Gently backfill the soil around the roots, firming down to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting and apply an organic mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Prune only the outer envelope immediately after the spring flowering flush; cutting back into old, leafless wood destroys the weeping habit and prevents new bud development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune immediately after the spring flowering flush to maintain a compact shape.
Grow in full sun to maximise the density of the flower spikes.
Provide regular moisture during dry periods to maintain optimal health.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, leafless woody stems.
Do not shear the plant into rigid geometric shapes.
Do not plant in deep shade where flowering will be severely suppressed.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Captain Cook Bottlebrush questions

What zones can Captain Cook Bottlebrush grow in?

Captain Cook Bottlebrush is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Captain Cook Bottlebrush bloom?

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

Does Captain Cook Bottlebrush need full sun?

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

Is Captain Cook Bottlebrush drought tolerant?

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