Callistemon pityoides (Alpine Bottlebrush)

An evergreen shrub from the swampy heaths and rocky streams of SE Australia. It has silvery-grey new growth, pine like foliage, (pityoides...) and yellow bottlebrush flowers. It can grow to 2m x 1m. Originally classified as Melaleuca pityoides.

Happy in full sun to partial shade, but will flower more freely in a sunny spot. Moist, acid to neutral soils are best, in a sheltered south or west facing position. Does well on heavier clay soils. Prune lightly to shape if needed. 'By Cuttings'

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.