Cat’s Claws Grevillea

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Description

Common names

Cat"s Claws Grevillea, Mountain Grevillea, Alpine Grevillea, Goldfields Grevillea, Mountain Grevillea.

Scientific names

Grevillea alpina.

Family

Proteaceae.

Genus

Grevillea.

Name origin

Grevillea, after Charles Francis Greville (1749-1809), co-founder of London Horticultural Society. Alpina, from Latin alpinus, alpine, referring to habitat of some provenances (localities).

Rainfall

400mm+.

Growth rate

Moderate.

Growth height

0.3-2m.

Presence in Australia

Noted only in Albury district.

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

Habitat

Dry sclerophyll forest or woodland, heath or mallee. Usually on sandy soil.

Habit

Spreading to semi-prostrate shrub 30cm to 2m high, with grey-green foliage.

Site preference

Well-drained soil. Tolerates frost and extended dry periods.

Characteristics

Can be long-lived.

Flowering

Bright red and yellow, mainly winter-spring.

Seed collection

Early Dec to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds shed immediately or 1-2 days after maturity. Long season. Profuse and conspicuous.

Propagation

From cuttings of fresh new growth, 5-7cm long, or from seed. Rooting hormones should improve strike rate.

Regeneration

From seed. Some provenances sucker.

Shade and shelter

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.

Wildlife

Excellent habitat. Flowers are a nectar-source for native birds, particularly honeyeaters such as the Eastern Spinebill. Many native moths and butterflies attracted. Foliage provides nesting sites for small birds including the Yellow-tufted Honeyeater.

Ornamental

Attractive, popular ornamental for gardens and tubs. Prune to encourage bushiness.