Dwarf Bottlebrush

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 3 feet
Spread: 3-5 feet
Flower Color: red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush - Compact, Colorful, and Wildlife-Friendly

The Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus 'Little John') is a versatile and resilient shrub, perfect for Arizona's hot and arid landscapes. Known for its vibrant red flowers and compact growth, this plant is a popular choice for adding year-round color and pollinator appeal to gardens.

Key Features of the Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush

• Striking Red Blooms: Resembling classic bottle brushes, the bright red flowers bloom throughout the growing season and attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Compact Size: Reaching about 2 to 3 feet in height and width, this shrub is ideal for smaller garden spaces or as a colorful ground cover in larger landscapes.

Benefits for Arizona Landscapes

• Drought Tolerance: Exceptionally suited to Arizona’s dry climate, the Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush requires minimal watering once established.
• Wildlife Support: Its vibrant flowers are a magnet for pollinators, enhancing the ecological value of the garden and supporting local wildlife.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for, this shrub only requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove spent blooms, making it ideal for water-wise and low-maintenance landscaping.

Planting and Care Tips

For best results, plant the Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush in full sun with well-drained soil. While drought-tolerant, regular watering during the first growing season will help establish a robust root system. Occasional pruning will keep it looking tidy and encourage more blooms.

Landscaping Uses

This dwarf bottlebrush works beautifully in mixed borders, as a low hedge, or as a focal point in xeriscape gardens. Its compact size also makes it perfect for small garden spaces, patio containers, or as an eye-catching ground cover.

Summary

The Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush is a top choice for Arizona landscapes, providing vibrant color, ecological benefits, and low-maintenance appeal. Its compact form, eye-catching flowers, and drought tolerance make it a practical and attractive addition to any water-wise garden.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Dwarf Bottlebrush

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Dwarf Bottlebrush does not require staking and naturally grows in a compact, rounded shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Dwarf Bottlebrush is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins showing consistent new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce watering to every 3-4 weeks