Common names

Seven Dwarfs Grevillea, Rusty Spider-flower.

Scientific names

Grevillea floribunda, Grevillea sphacelata, Grevillea autumnalis, Grevillea ferruginea.

Family

Proteaceae.

Genus

Grevillea.

Name origin

Grevillea, after Charles Francis Greville (1749-1809), co-founder of London Horticultural Society. Floribunda, from Latin floribundus, profusely flowering.

Rainfall

400mm.

Growth height

0.4-1.8m.

Presence in Australia

Noted in the areas Narrandera-Morundah-Galore-Collingullie; Mates Gully and Burkes & Graveyard.

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, Vic, WA.

Habitat

Dry sclerophyll forest or woodland on sandy soil, often in rocky situations.

Habit

Erect or spreading shrub, 40cm to 1.8m high, with velvety branches.

Site preference

Well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Tolerates extended dry periods and moderate frost.

Characteristics

Hardy. Highly variable characteristics.

Flowering

Rusty and greenish, throughout year, but mainly spring. Free-flowering.

Seed collection

Monitor, as seeds shed soon after maturity.

Propagation

From seed or cuttings, which strike readily. Germination may be difficult.

Shade and shelter

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.

Wildlife

Excellent to attract nectar-feeding birds.

Ornamental

Decorative ornamental for gardens and tubs, due to densely rusty-hairy flower-heads. Prune lightly from planting time to promote bushiness. Does not respond to hard pruning.

Other

Readily cultivated.