Callistemon salignus 'Great Balls of Fire'Great Balls of Fire Bottlebrush

The Callistemon salignus ‘Great Balls of Fire’, commonly known as Great Balls of Fire Bottlebrush, is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant, pink-red new foliage that contrasts beautifully with its mature green leaves. Growing up to 1–2 meters tall and wide, this Australian native is perfect for creating colorful hedges, borders, or as a feature plant. While it rarely flowers, the striking foliage makes it an eye-catching addition to gardens year-round.

Hardy and drought-tolerant, Great Balls of Fire is a low-maintenance option for both formal and informal landscapes.

Specifications:

• Height: 1–2 meters
• Width: 1–2 meters
• Native to: Australia
• Foliage: Bright pink-red new growth maturing to green; evergreen
• Growth rate: Moderate

Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Climate: Thrives in temperate, subtropical, and coastal regions

Additional Features:

• Form: Compact, bushy growth habit with dense foliage
• Uses: Ideal for hedges, borders, feature planting, or containers
• Spacing: Plant 1 meter apart for dense hedging or as standalone specimens
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; trim lightly to maintain shape
• Pest Resistance: Naturally hardy and pest-free
• Drought Tolerance: Performs well in water-wise gardens once established
• Wind Tolerance: Suitable for exposed and coastal gardens
• Seasonal Appeal: Evergreen foliage with vibrant new growth for year-round interest
• Versatility: Complements native, contemporary, and formal garden styles

Great Balls of Fire Bottlebrush is a stunning and versatile shrub, perfect for adding bold color and structure to gardens with minimal upkeep.