Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Melaleuca  

Species: Melaleuca viminalis

Common Name(s): weeping bottlebrush, creek bottlebrush; (Spanish) calistemon llorón

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Melaleuca viminalis, commonly known as weeping bottlebrush or creek bottlebrush, is a species of tree or large shrub native to Australia. It is a multi-trunked, large shrub or tree that can reach 25-30 feet tall in 30 years, but most trees are 15-20-feet tall.300 It has a hard bark, often hanging foliage and large numbers of bright red bottlebrush flowers in spring and summer. The flowers are arranged in spikes of between 15 and 50 individual flowers on and around the ends of branches. After flowering, woody capsules develop as fruit.301

Etymology

The species epithet viminalis traces back to Latin. The term is derived from the Latin word “vimen,” which means “a flexible twig” or “a slender shoot,” and reflects how the plant has long, slender branches.

Traditional Medicine

Weeping bottlebrush has long been used by the indigenous Australian communities to treat gastro-enteritis, diarrhea, skin infections, respiratory ailments, and aromatherapy. In addition, the twigs have been chewed as a method of oral hygiene and to freshen breath, and the leaves crushed and used as a natural insect repellent.302

Ecology

In its natural environment, weeping bottlebrush provides habitat and food for various native fauna, including birds, insects, and small mammals. Its flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds. Its adaptations to survive strong currents during flood events allow it to slow floodwaters and reduce erosion, thereby improving the water quality in streams and rivers. The matted roots also strengthen the soil of riverbanks, reducing the potential for erosion.303

Horticulture, Ornamental, and Other Colorful Uses

This is a hardy species that is useful as a screening plant, used as a barrier, and is suitable for planting as a street tree.