TreesGrevillea robusta
Silky Oak
The silky oak is a fast-growing, imposing Australian tree with finely divided, fern-like foliage and striking, one-sided orange-yellow flower plumes from April to June that are rich in nectar. As a young tree it can be kept as a container plant for its graceful leaf texture. In subtropical climates it grows into a majestic specimen.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 500–3000 cm
- Spread
- 400–1500 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 9–11
- Family
- Proteaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- orange
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, preferably slightly acid soil. Tolerant of drought, heat and poor soil once established. Avoid phosphate-rich fertilisers — as a member of the Proteaceae family the plant is sensitive to them. Water newly planted trees regularly until established.
Pruning tips
Prune young trees to encourage a good branch structure. Remove crossing and dead branches. Container-grown specimens can be height-managed by cutting back the leader annually. Mature trees need little pruning.
Good companions
ShrubsCallistemon citrinus
Crimson Bottlebrush
The crimson bottlebrush is a striking Australian shrub with cylindrical, vivid red flower spikes that look exactly like bottle brushes — hence the name. The flowers are packed with nectar, attracting bees and birds. The narrow, leathery leaves release a lemon scent when bruised. A spectacular container plant for sunny terraces.
TreesOlea europaea
Olive Tree
The olive tree is a majestic, long-lived tree with distinctive silver-green foliage and a gnarled trunk that grows increasingly characterful with age. In warm climates it produces edible olives following a modest white bloom in June. As a container plant it can bring Mediterranean charm to cooler regions too.
PerennialsPhormium tenax
New Zealand Flax
New Zealand flax is a vigorous evergreen plant with long, sword-shaped, stiffly upright leaves that create a spectacular architectural statement. Cultivars come in green, bronze, red and striped forms. At maturity a tall flower stalk appears with dark red tubular flowers that attract birds. A showpiece in modern and coastal gardens.