The Bottlebrush Tree, botanically known as Melaleuca or Callistemon species
The Bottlebrush Tree, botanically known as Melaleuca or Callistemon species, is native to Australia and is a member of the Myrtaceae family, a family known for the production of essential oils.
(Melaleuca and Callistemon are quite similar genera with only slight differences and have now been placed together as one genus, but people continue to use the name Callistemon in some places.
Melaleuca citrinus or Callistemon citrinus is a multi-stemmed shrub that grows into a short or medium sized tree, having a deeply furrowed bark and drooping branches, laden with narrow, lanceolate leaves. The flowers borne in spike inflorescences resemble the traditional bottle cleaning brush, hence the name (It could have possibly inspired the invention of the world's first Bottlebrush). These fragrant red blossoms rich in nectar, attract many nectivores, including hummingbirds, sunbirds, spider-hunters and bees.
Usually the flowers have red color but may be found in yellow, orange or white also.
The leaves and blossoms of the species Callistemon citrinus (Lemon Bottlebrush) are used for preparing a refreshing tea. The flowers give it a sweet taste (due to the nectar) while the leaves impart a citrusy flavour to it. This tea is good for healing digestive tract infections and is relaxing in general. This species of Bottlebrush, has weeping branches like the other species Maleleuca viminalis, but can be distinguished from it by the distinct citrusy smell produced by rubbing of the leaves. M.viminalis has a different odor.
The flowers when pollinated, produce small woody fruit capsules that resemble wooden bracelet beads and contain numerous tiny seeds,. These fruiting capsules form in bunches along the stem, and they are usually held on the plant for many years. Bottlebrushes take a long time to release their seeds, from a year to several years. Some even require fire to stimulate the capsules to open.
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