Overview
Summary
Grevillea dimorpha, commonly known as the flame Grevillea, is a compact shrub native to western Victoria, Australia. It's part of the Proteaceae family and stands out for its vibrant flowers and long flowering season. This small to medium-sized shrub is highly prized for its ornamental qualities and adaptability.
Key Features
Grevillea dimorpha typically grows 0.4 to 3 metres tall, usually reaching about 1 metre in height and width. It features long, dark green, linear leaves and produces bright red flowers in clusters from late winter to early summer. The plant forms a small, rounded shrub with a compact growth habit.
Natural Habitat
Endemic to western Victoria, Australia, Grevillea dimorpha thrives in its native range. It's adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, which contributes to its hardiness and low-maintenance nature. This shrub's natural habitat influences its growth patterns and flowering characteristics.
Growing Guide
Growing Grevillea dimorpha successfully requires attention to specific requirements and proper care techniques. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you cultivate this stunning Australian native shrub.
Requirements
Grevillea dimorpha thrives in well-drained, lime-free light soil. It's essential to avoid rich or high-phosphorus soils, as these can harm the plant. Plant your Grevillea in full sun for optimal growth and flowering. It's hardy down to -7°C, making it suitable for various climates. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Planting Tips
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your Grevillea dimorpha. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix native plant fertiliser into the backfill soil. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill and water thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch around the base, keeping it away from the stem.
Maintenance
Water your Grevillea dimorpha deeply during the first six months after planting. Once established, reduce watering to once a week in hot, dry weather and less frequently in cooler conditions. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser in spring. Monitor for pests and diseases, although Grevillea dimorpha is generally resistant to most issues. Remove any dead or damaged growth promptly to maintain plant health.
Uses & Benefits
Grevillea dimorpha offers numerous benefits and uses in gardens and landscapes. This versatile shrub provides both aesthetic appeal and practical advantages.
Garden Design
Grevillea dimorpha's compact size and vibrant flowers make it ideal for various garden designs. Use it as a focal point in rock gardens, borders, or mixed shrub beds. Its year-round foliage and extended flowering period add visual interest to native plant gardens. Plant it in groups for a stunning mass display or as a low-growing hedge.
Wildlife Benefits
This shrub attracts a diverse range of wildlife to your garden. Its nectar-rich flowers draw in native birds, particularly honeyeaters, providing them with a valuable food source. Bees and butterflies also frequent the blossoms, enhancing pollination in your garden. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites for small birds and insects.
Special Features
Grevillea dimorpha boasts unique characteristics that set it apart. Its dimorphic leaves add textural interest to the garden. The plant's drought tolerance makes it an excellent choice for water-wise landscaping. Its low-maintenance nature and resistance to pests and diseases reduce the need for chemical interventions, promoting environmentally friendly gardening practices.
Problems & Solutions
While Grevillea dimorpha is generally hardy, it can face some challenges. Here are common issues, care tips, and seasonal notes to help you maintain a healthy plant.
Common Issues
Grevillea dimorpha is sensitive to poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. It's also susceptible to phosphorus toxicity, causing leaf yellowing and stunted growth. Overwatering can result in fungal diseases, while under-watering may cause leaf drop and reduced flowering. Pest problems are rare but can include scale insects or mealybugs in some cases.
Care Tips
Plant Grevillea dimorpha in well-drained, acidic soil and full sun. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Apply a low-phosphorus, native plant fertiliser in spring. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Avoid disturbing the roots and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Seasonal Notes
In autumn, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Protect from frost in winter if temperatures drop below -7°C. Spring is ideal for fertilising and pruning. During summer, increase watering frequency during dry spells, but ensure good drainage. Monitor for pests and diseases year-round, addressing any issues promptly to maintain plant health.
Additional Information
Grevillea dimorpha is a versatile and attractive native Australian shrub. Here's some additional information to help you better understand and care for this plant.
Varieties
While no specific varieties of Grevillea dimorpha are mentioned in available sources, the species itself displays variation in leaf shape and plant size. Its dimorphic nature means you'll observe different leaf forms on the same plant, ranging from elliptic to linear or narrowly egg-shaped. The shrub's height can vary from 0.4 to 3 metres, offering flexibility in garden design.
Where to Buy
You can find Grevillea dimorpha at nurseries and garden centres specialising in native Australian plants. Local botanical gardens or native plant societies may also offer this species during plant sales. Online retailers of native Australian plants are another option for purchasing Grevillea dimorpha, often providing delivery services to various locations across the country.
Resources
For more information on Grevillea dimorpha, consult resources from Australian native plant societies and botanical gardens. The Australian Native Plants Society and state-specific native plant organisations offer valuable guides and fact sheets. Academic institutions and government departments focused on agriculture and biodiversity also provide reliable information on native species, including care guides and conservation efforts.