Overview
Grevillea wilkinsonii, commonly known as Tumut Grevillea, is a rare and endangered shrub species native to Australia. This member of the Proteaceae family is characterised by its ascending or erect to spreading growth habit.
Summary
Grevillea wilkinsonii is a rare shrub found in New South Wales, Australia. It's known for its distinctive purple-pink flowers with lilac-pink styles and pale yellow tips. The plant's scarcity in the wild has led to its classification as an endangered species.
Key Features
Tumut Grevillea typically grows 1.5 to 2 metres high and up to 2 metres wide, occasionally sprawling to 4 metres. Its leaves are narrow-oblong or oblong-elliptic, measuring 10–17 cm long and 8.5–21 mm wide, with flat margins. The shrub's striking flowers are its most notable feature.
Natural Habitat
Grevillea wilkinsonii is endemic to specific regions of New South Wales, Australia. It thrives in its native environment, adapting to the local climate and soil conditions. The plant's limited distribution contributes to its endangered status, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Growing Guide
Growing Grevillea wilkinsonii requires specific conditions to thrive. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you cultivate this endangered species successfully.
Requirements
Grevillea wilkinsonii thrives in acid to neutral soil with good drainage. Plant it in full sun to warm low sun areas. It's hardy in zones 8-10 and prefers dry soil between waterings. While it can tolerate occasional flooding, avoid prolonged waterlogging. This species adapts well to poor soil conditions.
Planting Tips
Choose a well-drained location for your Grevillea wilkinsonii. While it naturally grows near rivers, ensure it's not in an area prone to extended flooding. Plant in soil that allows excess water to drain quickly. Consider raised beds or mounds if your garden has heavy clay soil. Space plants 2-3 metres apart to accommodate their spread.
Maintenance
Prune Grevillea wilkinsonii regularly to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser in spring. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the stem to prevent rot. Monitor for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly.
Uses & Benefits
Grevillea wilkinsonii offers various uses and benefits, making it a valuable addition to gardens and ecosystems. Here's how you can utilise this unique plant:
Garden Design
Incorporate Grevillea wilkinsonii into your garden as a standalone specimen or in native shrubberies. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This shrub's growth habit makes it suitable for native gardens and wildlife-friendly designs, adding visual interest and biodiversity to your outdoor space.
Wildlife Benefits
Grevillea wilkinsonii's nectar-rich flowers attract native birds and insects, supporting local biodiversity. Plant it to create a wildlife-friendly garden that provides food and shelter for various species. Its dense foliage offers nesting sites for small birds, while its flowers serve as a vital food source for pollinators throughout its blooming period.
Special Features
This plant boasts stunning purple-pink flowers with lilac-pink styles and pale yellow tips, making it a visually striking addition to any garden. Grevillea wilkinsonii's narrow-oblong leaves, measuring 10-17 cm long, provide year-round interest. Its compact growth habit, reaching 1.5-2 metres in height and spreading up to 4 metres, makes it an excellent choice for screens or borders.
Problems & Solutions
Grevillea wilkinsonii faces several challenges due to its critically endangered status and limited distribution. Here's an overview of common issues and solutions for this rare species.
Common Issues
Grevillea wilkinsonii's critically endangered status stems from habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. Its restricted distribution, primarily a 20 km stretch along the Goobarragandra River in south-east NSW, makes it vulnerable to localised threats. Invasive species and climate change further compound these issues, threatening the species' survival.
Care Tips
To support Grevillea wilkinsonii, protect its natural habitat and participate in conservation efforts. The National Botanic Gardens in Canberra propagates the species in controlled environments, aiding its preservation. Consider supporting or volunteering for these initiatives. If cultivating, ensure proper care with well-draining soil, full sun exposure, and protection from invasive species.
Seasonal Notes
Grevillea wilkinsonii's seasonal challenges include potential disease and pest susceptibility, common to many native plants. Monitor the plant regularly for signs of stress or infestation, especially during changing seasons. Implement preventative measures such as proper spacing and air circulation to reduce disease risk. Adapt care routines to seasonal changes, adjusting watering and feeding as needed.
Additional Information
Grevillea wilkinsonii, the Tumut Grevillea, is a critically endangered species with limited distribution. This section provides further details about its varieties, where to purchase it, and resources for more information.
Varieties
Grevillea wilkinsonii has no known cultivars or varieties due to its critically endangered status and limited population. The species exists only in its natural form, with slight variations in leaf shape and flower colour observed among individual plants. These variations are not significant enough to warrant separate varietal classifications.
Where to Buy
Purchasing Grevillea wilkinsonii is challenging due to its endangered status. Specialist native plant nurseries in Australia occasionally offer seedlings or young plants for sale. Check with the Australian Native Plants Society or local botanic gardens for information on availability. Always ensure plants are sourced ethically and legally to support conservation efforts.
Resources
For comprehensive information on Grevillea wilkinsonii, consult the Australian Government's Species Profile and Threats Database. The Australian Native Plants Society provides valuable resources on cultivation and conservation. The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney offers detailed botanical information and research findings. These sources provide authoritative guidance on the species' management and preservation.