Overview
Summary
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is a cultivar of the Grevillea genus, originating from Queensland, Australia. It's a hybrid of Grevillea banksii and Grevillea pteridifolia, selected by Cherrel Jerks in Taringa, Brisbane. This evergreen shrub boasts vibrant yellow to orange flowers and thrives in various environments, making it a popular choice for gardens.
Key Features
- Height: 3-6 metres
- Width: 1-3 metres
- Flowers: Yellowish-orange racemes, 16 cm long, 8 cm wide
- Blooming period: Year-round, with peak flowering in winter and spring
- Leaves: Deeply divided, dark green or grey/green, often with silvery undersides
- Wildlife attraction: Highly attractive to birds due to nectar-rich flowers
Natural Habitat
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is native to Queensland, Australia. It's adapted to thrive in subtropical and temperate climates, preferring well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. In its natural habitat, it's found in coastal and near-coastal areas, often in open woodland or heathland environments. The plant's drought tolerance reflects its adaptation to Australia's variable climate.
Growing Guide
Growing Grevillea 'Honey Gem' successfully requires attention to specific conditions and care practices. This guide outlines the key requirements, planting tips, and maintenance strategies for cultivating this stunning Australian native shrub.
Requirements
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' thrives in full sun but tolerates semi-shade. It grows up to 6 metres high and 5 metres wide, preferring well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH. While drought-tolerant, regular watering promotes heavier flowering. This shrub can withstand moderate frost and adapts well to various soil types, including clay loams and sandy soils.
Planting Tips
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your Grevillea 'Honey Gem'. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix native plant fertiliser into the backfill soil. Plant at the same depth as it was in its container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base, keeping mulch away from the stem.
Maintenance
Prune Grevillea 'Honey Gem' lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Apply a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring. Monitor for pests like scale insects and treat if necessary. Remove dead or damaged branches promptly to maintain plant health and appearance.
Uses & Benefits
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' offers numerous advantages for gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts. Its versatility and beauty make it a valuable addition to various landscaping projects.
Garden Design
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' excels as a screening plant, reaching heights of 5 metres and widths of 3 metres. Its vibrant golden-orange flowers bloom year-round, adding striking colour to gardens. Use it as a focal point, hedge, or backdrop for smaller plants. Hard pruning maintains desired shapes and sizes, ensuring flexibility in your garden design.
Wildlife Benefits
The nectar-rich flowers of Grevillea 'Honey Gem' attract diverse wildlife. Honeyeaters, lorikeets, and parrots frequently visit for nectar. Bees, butterflies, and other insects are drawn to its abundant flowers. By planting this shrub, you'll create a thriving ecosystem in your garden, supporting local biodiversity and providing food sources for native fauna.
Special Features
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' boasts exceptional hardiness and low maintenance requirements. It thrives in sub-tropical, warm temperate, and Mediterranean climates, adapting to various environments. The shrub's drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it an eco-friendly choice. Its rapid growth rate ensures quick establishment, providing ornamental value and wildlife benefits in a short time.
Problems & Solutions
While Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is generally hardy, it can face several challenges. Here are common issues, care tips, and seasonal notes to help you maintain a healthy plant.
Common Issues
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is susceptible to fungal diseases, particularly in poorly draining soil. Root rot, powdery mildew, and honey fungus can cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. Overwatering exacerbates these issues. Fertiliser toxicity is another concern, as Grevilleas are sensitive to high phosphorus levels. Use native plant fertilisers low in phosphorus to avoid potential fatality.
Care Tips
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Use slow-release, low-phosphorus fertilisers specifically formulated for Australian native plants. Monitor for pests regularly and address any issues promptly to maintain plant health.
Seasonal Notes
In winter and spring, 'Honey Gem' reaches peak flowering. Reduce watering during these cooler months to prevent waterlogging. In summer, provide extra water during prolonged dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In autumn, prepare for the upcoming flowering season by applying a light layer of native plant fertiliser.
Additional Information
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is a popular cultivar with unique characteristics. Here's some additional information to help you make the most of this beautiful shrub.
Varieties
Grevillea 'Honey Gem' is a specific cultivar, but there are similar varieties you might consider:
- 'Moonlight': Creamy-white flowers
- 'Misty Pink': Soft pink blooms
- 'Superb': Bright red flowers
- 'Robyn Gordon': Red flowers with a compact habit
These alternatives offer different colours and growth habits while maintaining similar care requirements.
Where to Buy
You can purchase Grevillea 'Honey Gem' from:
- Local native plant nurseries
- Online Australian plant specialists
- Botanical gardens' plant sales
Garden centres specialising in native flora
Ensure you're buying from a reputable source to get a healthy, correctly identified plant. Check for availability in your area, as stock may vary seasonally.Australian Native Plants Society (Australia): www.anpsa.org.au
- Royal Horticultural Society: www.rhs.org.uk
- Gardening Australia: www.abc.net.au/gardening
- Local botanic gardens' websites
These resources offer detailed cultivation advice, species information, and tips for incorporating native plants into your garden design.