Overview
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is a popular hybrid shrub prized for its attractive foliage and prolific flowering. It's a result of crossing Grevillea bipinnatifida and G. banksii, developed by the late Merv Hodge.
Summary
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is widely used in gardens for its ornamental value and practical applications like screening and hedging. This evergreen shrub attracts nectar-feeding birds and provides shelter for smaller species. It's relatively hardy, drought-tolerant, and can withstand light frost once established.
Key Features
Height: 1.5-2 metres
Width: 2-4 metres
Foliage: Deeply divided, bright green, slightly prickly leaves
Flowers: Cream, pale pink, and occasionally red/orange racemes
Flowering period: Year-round
Low maintenance and bird-attracting qualities
Natural Habitat
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is a cultivated hybrid, not found in the wild. Its parent species, G. bipinnatifida and G. banksii, are native to Western Australia and Queensland, respectively. The hybrid thrives in well-drained soils, full sun to part shade, and adapts to various Australian climates.
Growing Guide
Cultivating Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is straightforward with the right conditions. This guide outlines essential requirements, planting tips, and maintenance practices for optimal growth.
Requirements
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' thrives in sunny, well-drained positions. It prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soils and tolerates a range of pH levels. Full sun to partial shade is suitable, with more sunlight promoting better flowering. This cultivar is drought-tolerant once established and can withstand moderate frost, making it adaptable to various climates.
Planting Tips
Choose a location with ample sunlight and well-draining soil. Improve heavy clay soils with gypsum to enhance drainage. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and plant at the same depth as the nursery container. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch around the base, keeping it away from the stem.
Maintenance
Water young plants regularly to establish a strong root system. Once established, water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce frequency in dormant periods. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Apply a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring. Monitor for pests and diseases, although Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is generally resistant to most issues.
Uses & Benefits
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is a versatile and beneficial shrub for your garden. It offers numerous advantages, from practical landscaping uses to supporting local wildlife.
Garden Design
You'll find Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' ideal for creating standalone features, informal hedges, or screens. Its dense, rounded growth habit reaches 1.5-2 metres in height and width, making it perfect for small gardens. This adaptable shrub thrives in full sun and most free-draining soils, fitting seamlessly into various garden settings.
Wildlife Benefits
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems. Its nectar-rich flowers attract native birds, bees, and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in your garden. By planting this shrub, you're creating a natural food source and habitat for pollinators, contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
Special Features
This shrub boasts exceptional drought tolerance once established, requiring minimal watering even in summer. It's frost hardy and thrives in poor soils, adapting to various garden conditions. Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is also pollution tolerant and pipe and drain friendly, making it a practical choice for urban gardens and challenging spaces.
Problems & Solutions
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is generally a hardy plant, but it can face certain challenges. Here's a guide to common issues and their solutions to help you maintain a healthy shrub.
Common Issues
Frost damage can affect Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' in colder regions. Check for green underneath the bark to assess viability after frost. Root rot is another concern, especially in poorly draining soil. Watch for wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. Fungal infections and pests like scale insects, aphids, and mealybugs can also pose problems.
Care Tips
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Avoid overwatering and improve drainage if needed. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Apply a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring. Monitor for pests regularly and use appropriate treatments if necessary. Protect young plants from frost in colder areas.
Seasonal Notes
In winter, reduce watering frequency and protect from severe frost. Spring is ideal for fertilising and light pruning. Summer requires regular watering for young plants, while established ones are drought-tolerant. Autumn is suitable for planting new Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' shrubs. Monitor for pests and diseases year-round, adjusting care as needed.
Additional Information
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is a popular cultivar with unique characteristics. Here's some additional information to help you learn more about this fascinating plant.
Varieties
Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' is a specific cultivar, but other Grevillea varieties offer similar features. These include:
- Grevillea 'Moonlight': White flowers, larger shrub
- Grevillea 'Robyn Gordon': Red flowers, compact growth
- Grevillea 'Superb': Orange-red flowers, bird-attracting
Each variety has distinct traits, allowing you to choose the best fit for your garden.
Where to Buy
Find Grevillea 'Coconut Ice' at:
- Local nurseries specialising in native plants
- Online garden centres with Australia-wide delivery
- Botanic garden plant sales events
- Specialist Grevillea growers
Check availability seasonally, as stock may vary. Compare prices and plant quality before purchasing.
Resources
For more information on Grevillea 'Coconut Ice', consult:
- Australian Native Plants Society: Comprehensive guides
- Gardening Australia website: Expert advice and videos
- State botanical gardens: Fact sheets and planting tips
- Local horticultural societies: Workshops and plant forums
These resources offer valuable insights for successful cultivation and care.