CALLISTEMON citrinus 'Little John'

Evergreen - blue-green, lance-shaped leaves to 7cm (3in) long.

Red - deep red

Height - 90cm (36in)

Spread - 90cm (36in)

Dwarf shrub - Typically only grows to a maximum of one or two feet in height but there will be some exceptions. - rounded habit. Produces flower spikes at the top of the branches.

Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter - Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F)

Full sun - sheltered position.

Additional Features - Pests & Diseases - - red spider mites, mealy bugs and scale insects under glass.

Place of origin - Australia (New South Wales, Victoria). C. viminalis hybrid.

Resistant to honey fungus - These plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.

Flower Shape - Spikes - - short spikes

Garden Location/Conditions - Greenhouse / conservatory - Not the sort of plants to be grown outside where there are likely to be frosts. These plants need to be grown in a conservatory or cool greenhouse or at least brought inside for the winter - loam based potting, JI. No 2. with full light and ventilation.

Hardiness - Frost hardy (down to -5) -

Pruning group - Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.

RHS group 8

Scented Plants - Scented foliage - - leaves release attractive lemon scent when crushed.

Seasonal Interest - Autumn -

Spring

Summer

Winter

Soil Conditions - Fertile moist well-drained soil -

Neutral to acid soil