Lemon Bottle Brush Tree

Plant Type: Evergreen Flowering Tree
Plant Height: 10-15 feet
Spread: 8-12 feet
Flower Color: Bright red, brush-like blooms
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Lemon Bottle Brush Tree: Vibrant Blooms and Year-Round Appeal

The Lemon Bottle Brush Tree (Callistemon citrinus) is a striking evergreen small tree or large shrub known for its brilliant red, brush-like flowers and aromatic foliage that releases a refreshing lemon scent when crushed. With its rounded form, colorful blooms, and evergreen foliage, it adds both shade and ornamental value to Arizona landscapes. Blooming heavily in spring and again in fall, it provides long-lasting color while attracting pollinators.

Key Features of Lemon Bottle Brush Tree

• Eye-Catching Blooms: Cylindrical, crimson-red flowers resemble bottle brushes and appear heavily in spring and fall.
• Fragrant Foliage: Leaves release a citrus-like aroma when brushed or crushed.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Evergreen Form: Dense foliage provides year-round greenery and screening.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates sandy or rocky conditions.
• Water: Moderate during establishment; low to moderate once mature.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering maintains shape and encourages more blooms.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to around 20°F; may show frost damage but usually recovers.

Landscaping Uses

• Small Shade Tree: Perfect for courtyards, patios, or smaller landscapes.
• Accent Plant: A bold focal point with vibrant flowers.
• Screen or Hedge: Works well as a living barrier when left in multi-trunk shrub form.
• Pollinator Gardens: Enhances biodiversity by attracting beneficial wildlife.

Summary

The Lemon Bottle Brush Tree is a versatile ornamental tree offering brilliant flowers, fragrant foliage, and evergreen structure. Ideal for Arizona landscapes, it provides reliable color, pollinator appeal, and light shade with minimal maintenance.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Lemon Bottle Brush Tree Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering and growth.
Soil: Well-drained soil; amend clay soils with compost or sand.
Spacing: Plant 8-12 feet apart if using multiple trees.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Stake young trees during the first year until established.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 5-7 gallons per watering for young trees.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Typically 6-9 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days; weekly during extreme heat or drought.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 12-18 inches from trunk, expanding outward as canopy grows.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-4 per tree, increasing with maturity.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase during heavy bloom cycles or extreme heat; reduce in winter.

General Watering Tips for Lemon Bottle Brush Tree

• Soil Check: Water when soil is dry 3-4 inches deep.
• Encourage Heavy Blooming: Deep watering in spring and fall supports vibrant flower flushes.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much moisture may cause root issues and reduced flowering.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or organic mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture and highlight the trunk.