Description Family Myrtaceae Originating from New South Wales, Australia An evergreen shrub or small tree with lance-shaped, dark green leaves and bright crimson flowers in spring and summer. Possibly the hardiest of all the bottlebrushes. The leaves, flushed bronze when young and lemon scented when crushed, are produced on arching branches, and even when not in flower, ‘Splendens’ makes an attractive addition to a sunny, sheltered garden. In very cold winters, this plant may require fleece protection but the floral explosion the following summer is worth the effort. The cylindrical, bottlebrush-like flowers are composed of hundreds of long, brilliant crimson stamens and are produced on the ends of the shoots, followed by woody seed capsules that ratle when shaken. The stems continue to grow beyond the seed capsules and if left untended can result in a very shaggy, unruly shrub, so it is wise to prune after flowering. Lower branches can also be removed, resulting in a small architectural tree with a weeping crown. Grow in moist well-drained soil on full sun in a sheltered position. Height and spread after 2 – 3 years 1.5m x 1.5m Semi mature height and spread after 5 – 6 years if not pruned 2.5m x 3m Potential mature height and spread after 10 – 12 years 4m x 4m
