How to grow grevillea

Grevillea are in the Protea family. They predominantly native to Australia, where they grow in forests, woodland and scrubland. Also known as the spider flower, the blooms are exotic and colourful, often appearing almost year round, from mid winter through to summer, in shades including pale yellow, pink and bright red.

The hardy grevillea species include Grevillea rosmarinifolia and Grevillea juniperina which will survive in temperatures down to around -10ºC, in a sheltered spot in full sun. The grevillea often found in parks or bedding schemes is Grevillea robusta, which is usually grown as an annual as it is tender and can only tolerate temperatures down to 1-5ºC. It's also known as silky oak and has tubular yellow flowers and long leaves. In regions where temperatures drop below -10ºC, some grevilleas can be grown in containers and brought indoors to overwinter in a greenhouse or conservatory.

One of the attractions of grevillea is its drought tolerance once established. This, as well as its lack of problems with pests or disease make it a low-maintenance plant in the right location. Grevillea are an attractive addition to borders, complementing plants such as lavender, Stipa tenuissima and Californian lilac, which thrive in similar growing conditions. They're a good choice for rockeries, gravel gardens and coastal gardens.

How to grow grevillea

Grow grevillea in a sunny, sheltered spot, in pots or at the front of the border. To increase its chances of withstanding cold weather, plant in well-drained soil to avoid plants becoming waterlogged. Prune lightly from late-winter to early spring if necessary, and avoid feeding as too much phosphorous in the soil can harm the plant.

Where to grow grevillea

Grevillea plants need protection from northerly winds. Choose a sunny site that is either south-, west- or east facing, in well drained, acid to neutral soil.

How to plant grevillea

Plant grevillea in the spring if possible, to give the plant time to establish before the winter. They can be grown in the ground or containers, but avoid putting these shrubs into pots that are too large as this can lead to an excess of wet compost around the roots of grevillea through winter. Grevillea don't thrive in waterlogged soil. Use ericaceous compost in containers.

In the ground, plant in well drained soil. Dig a hole that is slightly bigger than the plant's pot. Tip out the plant and place in the hole with the top of the compost as the same level as the surrounding soil. Backfill with the excavated soil and firm in well. Water after planting and during hot weather until the plant is established.

How to care for grevillea

Grevillea don't need annual pruning but may benefit from light pruning in late winter to early spring, to remove crossing, dead or diseased branches. It may be necessary to prune plants that are growing indoors to restrict their height. Wear gloves when pruning as grevillea can cause skin allergies.

Grevillea don't need feeding. Plants in the protea family don't thrive in soils with added phosphates.

To propagate take semi ripe cuttings in the summer.

Pests and diseases

Grevillea don't suffer from many pests and diseases. They are at slight risk of honey fungus, but rarely affected.

Frequently asked questions

Is grevillea an evergreen?

Yes, grevillea species are evergreen and add interest to the garden year round.

What is the prettiest grevillea?

There are many varieties to choose from, but 'Canberra Gem' is a popular variety with vibrant pink flowers that appear over a long period, including through winter, and a rounded shape that will add structure to the border. 'Olympic Flame' is also striking, with bi-coloured pink and cream flowers.

Varieties of grevillea to grow

Grevillea 'Canberra Gem' is a rounded shrub with flowers that range from bright pink to red flowers from late winter to late summer. Height x Spread: 4m x 4m

• Buy Grevillea 'Canberra Gem' from Ashwood Nurseries

Grevillea rosemarinifolia has leaves that resemble rosemary foliage and deep red flowers, which can appear for much of the year in sheltered conditions. H x S: 3m x 5m

• Buy Grevillea rosemarinifolia from Burncoose Nurseries

Grevillea juniperina, also known as the juniper leaf grevillea, is hardy down to -10º and has needle-like foliage and red flowers at the ends of its branches. H x S: 2m x 2m

• Buy Grevillea juniperina from Burncoose Nurseries

Grevillea 'Olympic Flame' is a round shrub with pink and white flowers that hang down slightly from its stems. This variety can flower almost year-round beginning in mid winter, through to mid summer. H x S: 2.5m x 2.5m

• Buy Grevillea 'Olympic Flame' from Urban Jungle