Weeping Bottlebrush Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook'

Water

The Weeping Bottlebrush, or Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook', prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. It should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During hotter, drier periods, increase the frequency to maintain soil moisture. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the root zone; for potted plants, this might be around 1-2 gallons depending on the size of the pot, ensuring that excess water can drain freely.

Light

The Weeping Bottlebrush thrives best in full sun, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot for it would be in a south-facing garden or landscape where it can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight exposure. Partial shade is tolerable, but flowering may not be as prolific in these conditions.

Temperature

Weeping Bottlebrush is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, typically surviving in conditions as low as 20°F and as high as over 100°F. However, they prefer a temperate climate with temperatures consistently between 50°F and 90°F. Frost may damage new growth, so protection or placement in warmer spots may be necessary in cooler climates.

Pruning

Pruning the Weeping Bottlebrush is important to maintain its shape and to encourage bushier growth with more flowers. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring, cutting back last year's growth by about a third, and shape as desired. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, can be done throughout the blooming season to promote continuous flowering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Bottlebrush 'Captain Cook' prefers a well-drained soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH around 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, sand, and peat or compost is ideal to ensure proper drainage while retaining enough moisture for the roots. Regular garden soil can be amended with organic material such as compost to improve texture and fertility.

Repotting

Bottlebrush 'Captain Cook' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Younger plants may require more frequent repotting. Upgrade to a slightly larger pot each time to allow for continued growth without causing undue stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Bottlebrush 'Captain Cook' prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Maintaining humidity around 50-60% is suitable for healthy growth. In drier climates, regular misting or a humidity tray can be beneficial in maintaining these levels.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, away from draft, water when topsoil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from severe frost.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook', commonly known as Captain Cook Bottlebrush, begins its life cycle when the seed germinates, usually in spring or early summer. Following germination, the seedling stage is characterized by initial leaf growth as the plant establishes its root system. As it matures into the vegetative stage, it produces long, slender leaves and begins to form woody stems, during which it undergoes substantial growth. The plant reaches the flowering stage, producing its distinctive red bottlebrush-shaped flowers, which attract pollinators and subsequently lead to seed formation. After pollination, the plant develops woody seed capsules that release seeds when mature, completing the reproductive cycle. Captain Cook Bottlebrush is a perennial plant, and it can go through the flowering and seed-setting stages multiple times throughout its lifespan, which can last several years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Callistemon viminalis 'Captain Cook', commonly known as Weeping Bottlebrush, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically takes place during late summer to early fall when the plant's growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length from the current year’s growth, ensuring each cutting has several leaf nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the cutting is placed in a well-draining soil mixture, with the lower half submerged. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and eventually transplanted into the garden.