Q Can I prune neglected callistemon?

A Although pruning callistemon (bottle brush) can be risky, I think your plant has got to the stage where severe action is needed. The best time to hard prune it is in spring, so I suggest you cut back half the long, thick stems, to about 30cm (12in), in March or April. If these sprout – and they should – repeat with the other stems next year.