With nearly 500 species/subspecies to choose from Grevillea are a plant of plenty in so many ways and one of my favourites. From Grevillea Robusta (Silky Oak) - the tallest of the genus, fast growing up to 35m and with orange flowers - to ground covers, such as Poorinda Royal Mantle or Bronze Rambler, there's a Grevillea for most situations. Many of the vast number are cultivars and hybrids of course and generally selected and developed for their large showy flowers. Impressive as these are there's a lot to be said for native, non-hybridised varieties which provide cover and nectar for the smaller honeyeaters. Some suggestions for these can be found here. There are many frost-hardy varieties to choose from. The only universal requirements seem to be well-drained soil, plenty of sunshine and watering during plant's establishment. After that they're drought hardy and require little care - although a light tip-prune after flowering will encourage bushier growth. The Toothbrush Grevillea below has grown quite large and has a long flowering season. The Little Wattlebirds and New Hollands are very fond of it. As well as a stunning variety of flower shapes and colours, Grevillea also have many different leaf forms, so you're bound to find at least one that you like. Happy planting.
1 Comment
angel b
16/6/2018 01:29:19 am
Before this grevillea I become bee, drunk on nectar. Your photography is truly fabulous. I resolve to plant more of the genus. Bring on the 500!
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February 2019
January - Grass Tree
February - Kangaroo Apple - Large-leaf Grevillea March - Silver Banksia April - Drooping Sheoak May - Correa June - Grevillea July - Buddleja August - Sundews September - Native Hibiscus October - Running Postman November - Hakea December - Sticky Hop Bush |