|
 This
genus numbers some 250 species of evergreen shrubs and trees in the
protea family. Extremely variable in habit, foliage and flowers,
most grevilleas are native to Australia with a few species from New
Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The small flowers are mostly densely
crowded into heads or spikes, their most conspicuous feature being
the long styles which are at first bent over like a hairpin and then
straighten out. Many are adaptable and easy to grow, with a long
flowering period and are popular with nectar-seeking birds. The
leaves are commonly deeply divided and may be very decorative in
their own right, the foliage of some species being grown for
cutting. In the last several decades hundreds of hybrid grevillea
cultivars have been bred, nearly all in Australia, and many are
extremely floriferous. Some of the most beautiful species are low
growing or prostrate; these may be planted in a rock garden, as
ground cover or in containers.
Hardiness zone from 7 To 12 .Plant Height From approx. 60 To 3000 cm
Flowering colors: Cream, Crimson, Green, Mauve, Orange, Pink, Red,
Scarlet, White, Yellow
Garden type: Seaside,Cultivation: Moderately frost hardy to frost
tender, grevilleas do best in well-drained, slightly dry, neutral to
acid soil in full sun. Strong roots develop early and it is
important not to disturb these when planting out. Pruning of the
shrubby species and cultivars is recommended immediately after
flowering to promote healthy new growth and a compact habit. They
are generally pest free although scale insects and leaf spot may
pose a problem. Propagate from seed in spring, from cuttings in late
summer, or by grafting for some of the species most prone to
root-rot. |
