The weeping bottlebrush is native to northeastern Australia, growing along watercourses. As such, it can withstand occasional flooding as well as drought conditions. These characteristics have led to it being extremely invasive in wetter parts of the U.S. south, such as Florida, although it is frost tender and therefore not a threat to colder parts of the U.S.

In the absence of native pests, the weeping bottlebrush can reach sizes and ages not typical in Australia, growing to 30 feet high and 20 feet wide. The cylindrical, bright red flower spikes, reminiscent of a bottle brush, are nectar rich and very attractive to birds and insects. It prefers hot sunny conditions with an average water supply but is extremely adaptable if the climate is warm enough.