Overview
Summary
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is a compact native shrub, a cross between G. alpina and G. rosmarinifolia. Originating near Ararat, Victoria, it was registered in 1985 by Plant Growers Australia. The name reflects its golden-yellow flowers and the region's gold rush history. It grows to 1 metre tall and wide, ideal for small gardens, rockeries, and low hedges.
Key Features
- Vibrant golden-yellow flower clusters forming raceme-like conflorescences
- Compact growth habit, reaching 1 metre in height and width
- Adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils
- Frost-tolerant and thrives in sunny to part-shade positions
- Responds well to light pruning for density and increased flowering
Natural Habitat
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' originates from the Ararat region in Victoria, Australia. It's adapted to well-drained soils and sunny to partly shaded areas. The plant's tolerance to frost and various soil types reflects its natural habitat's conditions. In gardens, it mimics its native environment when planted in rockeries or as groundcover.
Growing Guide
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is a low-maintenance shrub that thrives in various conditions. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal growth and vibrant blooms.
Requirements
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' reaches 1 metre in height and width. It prefers full sun to part shade positions and well-drained soils, including sandy, clay, or poor types. This frost-tolerant cultivar adapts to various climates but favours moderate temperatures. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency. It's drought-tolerant but flowers better with occasional watering in dry periods.
Planting Tips
Ensure well-drained soil by creating raised beds or mounds if necessary. Plant in spring or autumn to allow root establishment before extreme weather. Space plants 1 metre apart for individual specimens or 0.5 metres for hedging. Add a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it away from the stem to prevent collar rot.
Maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and promote dense growth. Remove dead or damaged branches as needed. Fertilise sparingly in spring with a low-phosphorus, native plant-specific fertiliser. Monitor for pests like scale insects or leaf miners, treating with organic methods if necessary. Avoid overwatering, especially in winter, to prevent root rot.
Uses & Benefits
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' offers numerous advantages for gardeners and wildlife alike. Its versatility and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for various garden designs and purposes.
Garden Design
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is a versatile plant for diverse garden designs. Use it in rockeries, small garden beds, or as a groundcover. Its compact size (1 metre tall and wide) makes it ideal for low hedges or mass plantings in larger beds. Light pruning maintains a dense, rounded shape, enhancing its aesthetic appeal in your garden layout.
Wildlife Benefits
This cultivar attracts pollinators, particularly bees and birds, to your garden. Its year-round golden-yellow flowers provide a consistent food source for nectar-feeding wildlife. By incorporating Grevillea 'Gold Rush' into your garden design, you're creating a wildlife-friendly environment that supports local ecosystems and increases biodiversity in your outdoor space.
Special Features
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' boasts low maintenance requirements, thriving in full sun to part-shade positions. It's adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils, with excellent drainage. This cultivar is drought-tolerant and frost-resistant, making it suitable for diverse climates. Its year-round flowering habit ensures continuous colour in your garden, regardless of the season.
Problems & Solutions
Whilst Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is generally low-maintenance, it can face some issues. Here's how to identify and address common problems to keep your shrub thriving.
Common Issues
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' may experience root rot in poorly drained soils. Watch for yellowing leaves and wilting. Fungal diseases can occur in humid conditions, causing leaf spots or dieback. Pests like scale insects or spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, leading to leaf discolouration or distortion.
Care Tips
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Improve drainage by adding organic matter or planting in raised beds. Prune regularly to improve air circulation, reducing fungal disease risk. Use low-phosphorus fertilisers to avoid toxicity. For pest control, use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps, applying in the cool morning hours.
Seasonal Notes
In winter, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging. Spring is ideal for pruning and fertilising to promote healthy growth. During summer heatwaves, provide extra water and mulch to retain moisture. In autumn, remove any dead or diseased branches to prepare for winter dormancy.
Additional Information
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is a popular cultivar with unique characteristics. Here's some additional information to enhance your knowledge about this plant.
Varieties
Grevillea 'Gold Rush' is a specific cultivar, but it belongs to a larger family of Grevillea plants. Other similar varieties include:
- Grevillea 'Honey Gem': larger shrub with orange-yellow flowers
- Grevillea 'Superb': compact shrub with red and yellow flowers
- Grevillea 'Moonlight': tall shrub with creamy-white flowers
These varieties offer different sizes and flower colours, expanding your options for garden design.
Where to Buy
You can purchase Grevillea 'Gold Rush' from:
- Local nurseries specialising in native Australian plants
- Online plant retailers with nationwide delivery
- Botanical gardens' plant sales events
- Specialist Grevillea growers
Check availability as it may vary seasonally. Some suppliers offer potted plants, while others provide seedlings or cuttings.
Resources
For more information on Grevillea 'Gold Rush', consult:
- Australian Native Plants Society website
- Royal Horticultural Society plant database
- State-specific gardening guides for native plants
- Local botanical gardens' educational resources
- Specialised books on Australian native flora
These resources provide detailed cultivation advice, species information, and tips for incorporating Grevillea into your garden design.