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Description
Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook, also known as Bottlebrush, is a popular ornamental plant that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. This plant is native to Australia and is named after Captain James Cook who explored the Pacific region in the 18th century. The plant is known for its vibrant red flowers that resemble a bottlebrush, hence the name “Bottlebrush”. It blooms in spring and summer and can grow up to 6m tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Callistemon |
Appearance
The leaves of Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook are about 10cm long and 1cm wide, with a dark green color. The flowers are cylindrical in shape, about 10cm long and bright red in color. The flowers grow in clusters and bloom in spring and summer. The plant can grow up to 6m tall and 4m wide. It has a bushy habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good drainage and proper air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Q: Can Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook tolerate partial shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun.
Q: When should I prune Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Callistemon Viminalis Captain Cook?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Callistemon citrinus
- Callistemon salignus
- Callistemon subulatus
References
- “Callistemon viminalis.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed 9 May 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/c-vim.html
- “Callistemon viminalis ‘Captain Cook’.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c933
- “Callistemon viminalis ‘Captain Cook’.” PlantNet. National Herbarium of New South Wales. Accessed 9 May 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Callistemon~viminalis+var.+viminalis
