The Callistemon viminalis, more commonly known as the Weeping Bottlebrush, is a fascinating ornamental plant from the Myrtaceae family. Native to Australia, this plant is distinguished by its striking red flowers, composed of long stamens resembling a bottlebrush. This spectacular floral display catches the eye and plays a key role in local biodiversity by attracting bees, butterflies, and nectar-feeding birds.
This small tree or large shrub can reach a height of 4 to 8 metres under optimal conditions. Its evergreen foliage, made up of narrow, lance-shaped, glossy green leaves, releases a pleasant fragrance when crushed. Well suited to tropical and subtropical climates, Callistemon viminalis thrives in well-drained but poor soils. However, it has a particular preference for humid environments, which has earned it the nickname “Weeping Bottlebrush.” It easily finds its place in botanical gardens such as Au Bois Vert, where it helps to create a harmonious and vibrant natural setting.
In a space like the Bois Vert botanical garden, this majestic specimen provides welcome shade and can be planted as a standalone feature or as a hedge. Thanks to its cascading growth habit, it lends a fluid and elegant aspect to the landscapes it adorns, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts of plants that are both hardy and aesthetically pleasing. Visitors to the Au Bois Vert hotel and restaurant can thus enjoy the beauty and freshness it brings to the surroundings.
Plant use
The Callistemon viminalis, or Weeping Bottlebrush, proves to be a versatile plant in the Bois Vert botanical garden. Its cascading growth habit and striking flowers make it an excellent choice for creating decorative hedges or focal points in landscape designs. Gardeners appreciate its ability to attract pollinators, which enhances biodiversity and contributes to the overall health of the garden. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Callistemon viminalis provides beneficial shade, making it ideal for rest areas within the botanical garden. Visitors can enjoy the coolness under its dense foliage, making it a perfect spot to relax after a visit to the Au Bois Vert restaurant or hotel. Furthermore, its tolerance for poor and well-drained soils allows it to thrive in various soil conditions, making it an adaptable plant for gardens in the Ivato and Antananarivo regions. The Callistemon viminalis seamlessly integrates into botanical gardens, hotels, lodges, and restaurants, adding a touch of colour and life to any outdoor space. Its ability to thrive in humid environments also makes it an excellent choice for areas near bodies of water or streams, further reinforcing its nickname, "Weeping Bottlebrush."
Key information
| Common name | Weeping Bottlebrush |
| Scientific name | Callistemon viminalis |
| Origin | Australia |
| Natural habitat | Wetlands near rivers and streams |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | Spring and summer (sometimes all year round in tropical climates) |
