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Proteaceae BUSH OUTDOOR Placement Primary: Other Ornamental

Grevillea

Grevillea spp.

Identified By Marcs

Grevillea is a diverse genus of about 360 species of evergreen flowering plants in the family Proteaceae, native to habitats ranging from rainforest to alpine areas in Australia, with a few species extending to Indonesia, New Guinea, and New Caledonia. They are widely celebrated for their uniquely shaped, vibrant flowers which resemble spiders or toothbrushes, attracting a wide variety of nectar-feeding birds and mammals. The foliage ranges from needle-like to broad and fern-like, often covered in fine hairs. These plants thrive in Mediterranean and subtropical climates, requiring well-draining soils and full sun exposure to flourish.

Also known as: Spider Flower Silk Oak

Toxicity & Safety

Is Grevillea toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

Many Grevillea species produce foliage and flowers containing hydrogen cyanide compounds or irritant saponins that can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities. Furthermore, the sharp, needle-like leaves and rigid flower structures found in many popular varieties can cause mechanical injury, puncture wounds, or severe irritation to the mouths, digestive tracts, and skin of curious dogs and cats, leading to drooling, vomiting, and distress.

Is Grevillea toxic to humans?

No, Grevillea is generally safe for humans.

Is Grevillea safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 30 - 400 cm
Width 50 - 300 cm
Growth Rate Fast
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature -5°C - 35°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 10 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 5.5 - 7
Watering Interval 10 - 21 days
Humidity 30.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 9a - 11b

Mediterranean and Subtropical Climates

Climate: Warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters with abundant sunshine and low atmospheric humidity.

Soils: Sandy Loam Graunchy Soil Acidic Sand
Annual Rainfall: 400 - 1200 mm

Native Regions

Indonesia
Australia (AU – Oceania)
New Caledonia
New Guinea (PG – Oceania)

How to Care for Grevillea

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Grevilleas thrive best in full sun locations where they can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can drastically reduce flower production and lead to weak, leggy growth. Ensure they are planted in open, unshaded areas away from heavy tree canopies.

How should I handle watering guidelines?

Water young Grevillea plants regularly during their first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Once established, most species are remarkably drought-tolerant and only require deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogging the soil at all costs, as they are exceptionally sensitive to root rot.

How should I handle soil and fertilizer?

Plant Grevilleas in sandy, acidic, and exceptionally well-draining soils. They belong to the Proteaceae family and are sensitive to phosphorus, so you must use specialized native plant fertilizers with very low phosphorus levels, or ideally, avoid fertilizing them entirely to prevent phosphorus toxicity.

How should I handle pruning practices?

Lightly prune Grevilleas after their main flowering season to maintain a compact, bushy shape and prevent them from becoming woody and sparse. Never prune into thick, old wood where there are no green leaves or visible buds, as many varieties fail to shoot from old wood.

How to Propagate Grevillea

How to propagate Grevillea by cutting?

Propagating Grevilleas from semi-hardwood cuttings is the most reliable method to replicate specific cultivars true to type. Select healthy, non-flowering current season growth measuring about 10 to 15 centimeters in length during late summer or autumn. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder specifically formulated for native plants, and insert it into a sterile propagation mix consisting of perlite and coarse sand. Maintain high humidity by covering the container with a plastic dome, place it in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight, and keep the medium consistently moist until roots develop over several weeks.

Common Diseases & Pests of Grevillea

What is Root Rot and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Infected plants exhibit sudden wilting, yellowing of foliage, stunted growth, and eventual collapse of the entire plant. The root system turns dark brown, mushy, and decays due to excess moisture.

Treatment:

Remove and destroy severely infected plants immediately. Improve soil drainage around neighboring plants and apply a targeted fungicide if caught in early stages, though recovery is rare once established.

Prevention:

Always plant Grevilleas in fast-draining soil, elevate planting beds if necessary, and never allow water to pool around the base of the plant.

What is Leaf Miner and how is it treated?

Pest
Symptoms:

Visible winding, serpentine silvery trails or blotches appear across the leaves as larvae feed internally between the upper and lower leaf surfaces, reducing aesthetic appeal.

Treatment:

Prune away heavily infested leaves and dispose of them securely. Apply horticultural oils or systemic insecticides if the infestation is severe and widespread.

Prevention:

Monitor plants regularly, encourage beneficial predatory insects in the garden, and maintain overall plant vigor through proper environmental conditions.

Properties & Benefits of Grevillea

Bears Fruit

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of wildlife habitat and biodiversity in Grevillea?

While Grevilleas are not typically used for direct human medicinal or nutritional purposes, they provide immense ecological health benefits. The nectar-rich flowers serve as a vital food source for native birds, bees, and small marsupials, significantly supporting local ecosystem biodiversity and pollinator populations within the garden environment, which indirectly promotes a healthier suburban and rural habitat.

Precautions: Avoid planting highly allergenic species near heavily trafficked walkways if sensitive to skin irritations.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

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Passion Fruit

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Whale Fin

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Golden Wattle

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Snow Pea

Snow Pea

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Gloriosa Lily

Gloriosa Lily

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Tree Tomato

Tree Tomato

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Betel Leaf

Betel Leaf

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Grevillea

Grevillea

Grevillea is a diverse genus of about 360 species of evergreen flowering plants in the family Proteaceae, native to habitats ranging from rainforest to alpine areas in Australia, with a few species extending to Indonesia, New Guinea, and New Caledonia. They are widely celebrated for their uniquely shaped, vibrant flowers which resemble spiders or toothbrushes, attracting a wide variety of nectar-feeding birds and mammals. The foliage ranges from needle-like to broad and fern-like, often covered in fine hairs. These plants thrive in Mediterranean and subtropical climates, requiring well-draining soils and full sun exposure to flourish.

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Kawakawa

Kawakawa

Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) is an iconic small tree or shrub native to New Zealand, deeply significant in Māori culture and traditional medicine. Recognizable by its distinct heart-shaped, glossy green leaves, which often feature insect holes—a sign prized by traditional healers because it indicates the leaves are rich in active compounds. The plant thrives in coastal and lowland forests, preferring moist, well-draining soils and partial to full shade. It belongs to the Piperaceae family, making it a close relative of the black pepper plant. Kawakawa has been historically utilized for its medicinal properties, particularly for digestive and skin ailments, as well as making aromatic teas.

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Cat Tail Plant

Cat Tail Plant

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Crabapple

Crabapple

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Violas

Violas

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Couch grass

Couch grass

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Roses

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Redwood Trees

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Narcissus

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Samphire

Samphire

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Bottlebrush

Bottlebrush

Callistemon, commonly known as bottlebrushes, is a genus of shrubs and small trees in the family Myrtaceae, native to Australia. They are widely cultivated in warm temperate regions across the world for their striking, cylindrical, brush-like flowers that closely resemble traditional bottle brushes. These hardy plants are exceptionally resilient, drought-tolerant once established, and highly attractive to nectar-feeding birds and beneficial pollinators. Their rigid leaves and unique floral displays make them an exceptional choice for ornamental landscaping, hedges, and urban gardens.

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Quaking Aspen

Quaking Aspen

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Stone Fruit Trees

Stone Fruit Trees

Prunus is a large and economically important genus of trees and shrubs that includes popular cultivated fruits such as plums, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, and almonds. Most species are deciduous and renowned for their stunning, highly ornamental spring blossoms in shades of pink and white, followed by fleshy stone fruits containing a hard-shelled seed. They thrive in temperate regions around the Northern Hemisphere and require well-draining soil and adequate sunlight to produce optimal fruit harvests. While many species are cultivated for delicious edible crops, others are strictly grown as ornamental landscape specimens for their vibrant seasonal foliage and spectacular floral displays.

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Sundew

Sundew

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Sweetgrass

Sweetgrass

Sweetgrass is an aromatic herb native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Revered by indigenous peoples, it is traditionally used in sacred ceremonies, crafts, and as a natural fragrance due to its sweet, vanilla-like scent caused by the presence of coumarin. The plant typically features bright green blades with a distinctive shiny golden hue near the base. It thrives in moist, cool climates, spreading vigorously via underground rhizomes. As a hardy perennial, it requires minimal maintenance once established, preferring damp soils near riverbanks, wetlands, and open meadows.

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Lemon Myrtle

Lemon Myrtle

Lemon myrtle is a flowering plant native to the subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland, Australia. Renowned for its intense, refreshing citrus aroma that surpasses even that of lemons, the leaves contain the highest known natural source of citral. This remarkable botanical has become a cornerstone of Australian bushfood and is widely celebrated globally in culinary dishes, herbal teas, and high-end cosmetic formulations due to its uplifting scent and remarkable antimicrobial properties.

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