An important plant in the wild, where it reaches its natural form - a large spreading tree. It reaches a height of about 10 metres in its natural habitat but is usually smaller in cultivation, where it is typically a small tree with pendulous foliage although some forms are more pendulous than others.
Once established it is able to tolerate extended dry periods. A useful tree, extremely important for creek health, as it stabilises creek banks. It is a source of nectar for insects and birds.
The brushes are usually about 70 mm long by 50 mm diameter, bright red in colour and are usually seen in spring and sometimes in autumn.
Propagation easy from both seed and cuttings.
Callistemon from Greek kalos; beautiful and stemon; stamens. Viminalis means long, slender shoots.
Apparently Callistemons are being brought back into the Melaleucas.