For the first time in India, the Centre for Aromatic Plants (CAP) in Selakui is conducting research on the commercial cultivation of bottle brush (scientific name Callistemon), a vibrant flowering plant commonly seen along roadsides, in parks, and in residential landscapes. This initiative aims to unlock the plant’s untapped potential, offering farmers in Uttarakhand a promising new crop with multiple income sources.
According to researchers at the CAP, bottle brush cultivation could prove highly beneficial for farmers, yielding profits in two key ways: oil extraction from its leaves and honey production from its year-round blooming flowers. Preliminary studies suggest that one hectare of cultivated land can generate an income of up to ₹2.10 lakh annually.
While the plant is widely used for ornamental purposes across the country, no state has yet explored its commercial farming potential. The CAP’s research marks the first such effort to turn this aesthetically appealing plant into a viable agricultural resource.
“Once our research is complete, we aim to promote bottle brush as an alternative to eucalyptus and poplar, especially in areas affected by crop damage from wild animals,” said a senior scientist involved in the project. Farmers will be trained and guided on best practices for cultivating this hardy plant, which is known for its resistance to pests and environmental stress.
The initiative is also expected to help farmers dealing with losses due to wildlife intrusions. Bottle brush plants are less likely to be damaged by wild animals, making them a suitable choice for buffer zones or vulnerable farmland.
With its medicinal properties, ornamental appeal, and economic viability, bottle brush farming could open new avenues for sustainable and profitable agriculture in Uttarakhand. The state government and research institutions are optimistic that, following successful trials, this underutilized plant could soon become a mainstay in the region’s farming landscape.