Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus ‘Little John’) is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which should be used to full effect. This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting bees and hummingbirds to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
A dwarf Bottlebrush variety, Callistemon citrinus ‘Little John’ is a beautiful, dense, evergreen shrub grown for its dazzling blood-red flowers and evergreen foliage of narrow, blue-green leaves. Blooming throughout most of the year, the elongated flower spikes of this Australian native are surrounded by long, bristlelike stamens, giving them the look of bottlebrushes, hence the common name. The blooms are a copious source of nectar for birds and hummingbirds. They also make excellent cut flowers. A slow grower, ‘Little John’ is perfect for small gardens.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight and Temperature
The Dwarf evergreen shrub grows best in full sun to light shade. It grows outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 8a and higher.
The ideal temperature of this plant ranges from 50° to 89° degrees Fahrenheit.
In North America, the plant is suitable for outdoor cultivation in Florida, California, and other parts of the South.
In cooler climates, the plant is cultivated in pots and brought indoors for the winter.
When grown as a houseplant, it may achieve the same height and spread.
Watering and Fertilizing
The plant needs moderate watering, with soil kept moist throughout most of the year.
Once established, Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush has good drought tolerance but still needs good drainage to prevent root rot and other plant problems.
Young and potted plants may require water once or twice weekly, especially during the warmer months.
Established outdoor plants should only require water during extended periods without rain. Moreover, they tolerate low humidity.
While fertilizer isn’t needed, adding slow-release fertilizer granules in the spring may encourage fuller growth in younger plants.
Soil and Transplanting
The plant grows well in slightly acidic, moist, well-draining soil with pH levels between 5.6 and 7.5.
Silt, loam, and clay soil are suitable environments for dwarf Little John Bottlebrush.
Transplant potted plants as needed at the start of spring.
Replace the soil when transplanting and move to a larger pot if the roots become compacted.
Pruning
Trim to shape anytime. Hard pruning isn’t necessary since the plant grows fairly slowly.
Propagation
Propagate Little John Bottle Brush using semi-hardwood cuttings.
- Select cuttings measuring 6″ to 12″ inches long.
- Cut the stem and dip the end in a hormone rooting powder.
- To propagate outdoors, prepare a section of soil by amending the existing soil with organic matter.
- Stick the cutting into the soil, ensuring several leaf nodes remain above the ground.
- When growing the plants indoors, use large pots filled with moist, well-drained soil.
- The cuttings should take root during the summer but shouldn’t be transplanted until spring the following year.
Pests and Diseases
Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush is deer-resistant and virtually disease-free, and pest-free. The main threats include scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests are more common when the plant is grown indoors.
If scale insects appear, try to remove them manually. Scrape them off the plant.
For spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects not coming off easily, spray the plant with cool water. Allow the plant to dry before repeating this step. After several sprayings, if the pests remain, treat the plant with a homemade insecticide or a commercial Neem Oil pesticide. To try a homemade solution, combine several teaspoons of dish soap with water and spray the plant.
While many species of bottlebrush plants contain toxic substances in the fruits, seeds, or foliage, Little John is not a threat. It’s non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and children. However, people with sensitive stomachs may experience minor digestive issues after ingesting the fruits or parts of the plant.
III. Uses and Benefits
In warm regions, use the deer-resistant Little John Bottle Brush to bring winter interest to any landscape area.
The blue-green leaves and bright-red flowers stand out during the colder months.
Its versatile compact size allows it to grow as a low hedge or foundation plant.
In cool regions, grow Little John Dwarf Bottlebrush in three-gallon or larger containers.
Keep the plant outdoors during the summer and bring it indoors for the winter.
