General Description:

Hakea is a genus of about 150 species, all of which are endemic to Australia. Hakeas can be found in many different environments; the tropics, mountains, the coast and desert areas. The most diversity in the genus occurs in the south of Western Australia.

Hakea minyma is a medium to tall shrub from 2 to 5 metres high with linear leaves up to 150 mm long and 7 mm wide. The cream or pale pink flowers occur in racemes about 40 – 50 mm long which are seen in the leaf axils in winter and spring. Although the flowers occur within the foliage, the open habit of the plant means that they are well displayed, never failing to attract attention. Flowers are followed by woody seed pods about 20 mm long containing two winged seeds, the usual number for all Hakea species. The pods do not shed the seed until stimulated to do so by environmental conditions (eg after a bushfire).

This species has been in cultivation for many years although it is mainly grown by enthusiasts.  It is best suited to areas of low summer humidity. In humid areas it can grow successfully for some years but cannot be regarded as a long term plant in those areas unless grafted (see below). The species is tolerant of at least moderate frosts and the flowers are attractive to honeyeating birds. The species grows and flowers best in an open, very well drained, sunny position but it will tolerate some shade.

Hakea minyma is easily grown from seed. Cuttings may succeed but these may not be particularly easy to strike and often do not produce a strong root system. Grafting of the species onto the eastern species H.salicifolia has proved to be very successful and has enabled the plant to be grown in previously unsuitable areas.