Callistemon rugulosus, commonly known as Scarlet Bottlebrush, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the sclerophyll forests and coastal heathlands of Southeastern Australia. It typically grows to a height of 5 meters (20 feet) with a distinctive open, straggly habit. The leaves are stiff, sharply pointed, and the bark is peeling and grey. The species is renowned for its bright red bottlebrush flowers with yellow tips, which bloom in summer, particularly from November to December in its native range. These flowers are arranged in spikes around the branches that continue to grow post-flowering, and they are followed by woody capsules measuring 4.5–6.5 mm (0.2–0.3 inches) long.

Scarlet Bottlebrush is valued for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract pollinators such as birds and bees. It is used in urban landscaping, as a specimen or accent plant, and for habitat restoration projects. This plant is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens with low water availability. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers soils with medium to fast drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. Pruning after flowering can encourage bushier growth and more prolific blooming.CC BY-SA 4.0