A tall, evergreen shrub or small tree that is famous in NSW at Xmas time as an alternative to the pine tree as a Christmas decoration.
It has slim, attractive leaves that appear in bronze and turn to green.
The plant is however most valued for its display of flowers which start as small, white petalled and turn into small fruits that are surrounded by bright pink or even red flowers.
This occurs naturally around Xmas time making a showy display.
N.B. does not like salty winds.
Other varieties:
"Albery's Red" has dark red flowers and darker leaves.
"Shiraz" a new form with larger leaves and sepals.
"Wildfire" a form with narrower leaves and red stems.
"Silent Night" a new PBR variety.
"White Christmas" is not as vigorous or compact as "Albery’s Red".
"Johanna's Christmas' is a minature form that grows to only 1m. Not easy to find, hopefully will come more available in nurseries soon.