This large shrub to small tree has single or multiple trunks with spreading branched that form a open crown. It has dark green leaves with a toothed margins and the white cup-shaped flowers give way to a brilliant display of red sepals in early summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Ceratopetalum gummiferum is naturally found in Australia growing in rainforests in damp protected gullies and sheltered positions on the east coast from southern Queensland to New South Wales. 

It prefers a well drained moderately fertile sandy soil in a sunny to partial shaded wind protection position and tolerates salt, drought and light frost.

Christmas Bush is a long lived small tree that is grown as a garden specimen or used for screen and street plantings. It is also planted in rainforest settings and the flowers are cut for floral arrangements due to its colourful sepals. It can be grown in tubs and as an indoor plant when young and has a medium growth rate establishing in 3 to 5 years. it is also planted in bushland settings attracting birds. ID 149

Ceratopetalum (ser-at-oh-PET-uh-lum) gummiferum (gum-MIF-er-um)

'Ceratopetalum': from Greek keratos + petalon - horny petal (refers to the resemblance of the narrow petals to antlers); 'gummiferum': bearing gum (sap).

Cunoniaceae (kew-NON-ee-AY-see-ee)