Bottlebrush

Bottlebrush commonly refers to ornamental shrubs and small trees native to Australia, most notably those formerly placed in the genus Callistemon (now often included in Melaleuca). The term also denotes a family of cleaning brushes used for interior bottle cleaning.

Botanical description: Bottlebrush plants are evergreen, often dense shrubs that reach several meters tall. They produce cylindrical inflorescences up to several centimeters long, composed of numerous small flowers whose long, bright stamens protrude to resemble a brush. Colors vary by species, most famously red, but pink, white, and yellow forms exist. Leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and usually aromatic.

Taxonomy and distribution: Native to Australia, bottlebrush species are popular ornamental plants in warm temperate and subtropical regions worldwide. The genus Callistemon has been revised, with many species moved to Melaleuca; common usage, however, continues to recognize bottlebrush as a name for these plants.

Cultivation and care: They prefer full sun and well-drained soils; drought-tolerant once established and sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Pruning after flowering helps maintain shape in many species. They may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and to pests such as scale.

Ecology and uses: Flowers attract birds and pollinators and the brush-like inflorescences add seasonal color in landscapes. In horticulture, they are used as specimens, hedges, or screen plants in suitable climates.

Bottlebrush cleaning brush: A bottlebrush is a cleaning implement consisting of stiff bristles arranged around a central rod to form a hollow cylinder. It is used to scrub the interior of bottles and other narrow vessels. Modern versions are commonly made of nylon bristles with plastic or metal handles and are dishwasher-safe in some cases.