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Plant Profiles / Grevillea
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Grevillea
Grevillea hybrids (e.g. 'Robyn Gordon', 'Moonlight') · Spider flower
Australian native shrubs with brush-like, nectar-rich flowers for much of the year. Grevilleas bring birds, colour and toughness to sunny spots.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Six or more hours of sun for the most flowers.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water regularly in pots; drought tolerant once established in the ground.
Humidity
Low to average
LowHigh
Prefers good airflow.
Temperature
-3–40°C (27–104°F)
CoolWarm
Many handle light frost and heat.
Growth
Fast, shrub
SlowFast
From 1 m ('Robyn Gordon') to 4 m+ ('Moonlight').
Soil
Free-draining, low phosphorus
LeanRich
Native potting mix.
Fertiliser
Native fertiliser only
RarelyOften
Use a low-phosphorus native fertiliser lightly in spring.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Some grevilleas contain cyanogenic compounds, and the foliage can irritate skin.
About this plant
There are over 350 species of grevillea, mostly from Australia. Hybrids like 'Robyn Gordon' (red, compact) and 'Moonlight' (cream, tall) flower nearly year-round in warm climates. They dislike phosphorus, so use native fertiliser only.
Best spots
Sunny balconies and courtyards in large pots, native gardens, screens and hedges.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Grevillea hybrids (e.g. 'Robyn Gordon', 'Moonlight') |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Origin | Australia |
| Plant type | Evergreen shrub |
| Mature size | 1–4 m+ |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Fine or fern-like leaves |
| Flowers | Brush-like red, pink, orange or cream |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic; may irritate skin |
| Propagation | Cuttings or grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
FloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Too much phosphorus or poor drainage. Use native fertiliser. |
| Sudden death | Root rot (phytophthora) from wet soil. |
| Leggy growth | Prune lightly after flowering. |
| Few flowers | Too much shade. |
| Skin rash after pruning | Some types irritate skin; wear gloves. |
Common questions
Can I use normal fertiliser?
No, grevilleas are sensitive to phosphorus. Use native fertiliser.
When should I prune?
Tip-prune after a flowering flush.
Does it attract birds?
Yes, honeyeaters love the nectar.
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, compact varieties suit large pots.
