General Description:

Grevillea is a genus of around 380 species, most of which are endemic to Australia but a few species occur in Papua New Guinea and islands to Australia’s north. Further information on the botany, propagation and cultivation of grevilleas can be found in our dedicated Grevillea page.

Most grevilleas are small to medium shrubs but some are prostrate and a few can become large trees. Various species hybridise readily and numerous named cultivars are available resulting from either deliberate breeding or chance hybridization.

Grevillea eriostachya is a bushy shrub 1.5 to 2 metres tall with flower stems emerging 30cm or so above the foliage, usually in late winter and spring. Flowers may also appear in response to seasonal rainfall and are greenish in bud but open to a spectacular golden-yellow colour. The foliage is grey-green, the leaf lobes (usually 2-7) being long and fine with short dense hairs on the upper surface.

This is a spectacular species which is suited to dry climates. It is difficult to maintain in humid climates unless grafted. It requires a sunny position and excellent drainage. Nectar eating birds are attracted to the flowers and are the pollinating agents.

Propagation may be carried out from seed and germination is improved if the seed is carefully “nicked” with a sharp knife to expose the embryo. Cuttings can be difficult to strike but the species has been successfully grafted using Grevillea robusta as rootstock.