BOTTLEBRUSH RED
Light:
☀️ Full sun. Bottlebrush Red thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which encourages the plant to produce its iconic, brush-like red flowers. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight each day to grow and bloom.Water:
💧 Water moderately. Water deeply when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, but avoid overwatering. Once established, Bottlebrush Red is fairly drought-tolerant, but it benefits from regular watering during hot or dry periods.Soil:
🌱 Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Bottlebrush plants prefer a soil that doesn't retain too much moisture. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, and you can add organic matter to improve drainage if needed.Temperature:
🌡️ Prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost. Bottlebrush can tolerate heat but should be shielded from frost in cooler regions.Humidity:
💦 Moderate to low humidity. It adapts well to average household humidity levels. Bottlebrush is typically suited for outdoor gardens but can also be grown in containers if placed in a sunny location.Fertilizer:
🌼 Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can encourage foliage growth at the expense of blooms.Pruning:
✂️ Prune after the flowering season to shape the plant and remove dead or damaged branches. Light pruning throughout the growing season can help maintain a compact form and encourage more blooms.