Top 10 Native Shrubs Up to 2 Metres for Sunshine Coast & Southeast Queensland Gardens

Top 10 Native Shrubs Up to 2 Metres for Sunshine Coast & Southeast Queensland Gardens

Looking for compact native shrubs that bring colour, texture, and wildlife to your garden without growing too tall? Whether you need a low hedge, or feature plant, there are plenty of tough, low-maintenance Australian natives that stay under 2 metres. Here are our top 10 picks, all perfect for Sunshine Coast conditions.

1. Grevillea ‘Lana Maree’

A colourful, low-growing Grevillea with masses of pink and cream flowers. Perfect for borders, low hedges, or attracting birds to your garden.

2. Grevillea ‘Loopy Lou’

This tidy, rounded shrub produces soft pink flowers over a long season. Great for garden beds or adding long-lasting colour to smaller spaces.

3. Grevillea ‘Soopa Doopa’

A neat, compact shrub with pink and cream flowers that bring native birds into your garden. Perfect for borders or feature planting.

4. Grevillea ‘Lemon Baby’

A bright and cheerful variety with lemon-yellow flowers and soft green foliage. Ideal for adding contrast and light to native planting schemes.

5. Banksia spinulosa (Hairpin Banksia)

A compact, bird-friendly shrub with golden-orange flowers and fine, dark green foliage. Great for adding texture and attracting wildlife.

6. Banksia ‘Honey Eater’s Delight’

A low-growing variety with golden-orange flower spikes and soft foliage. Ideal for small spaces or adding native colour to garden beds.

7. Grevillea ‘Little Robyn’

A compact Grevillea with soft green foliage and red flowers that attract birds. Perfect for low hedges or feature planting in smaller gardens.

8. Leptospermum ‘Little Lemon Scent’ PBR

A dense, bushy shrub with lemon-scented foliage and white flowers in spring. Great for low hedges, borders, or feature planting in native gardens.

9. Melaleuca ‘Claret Tops’

A compact shrub with rich green foliage and striking claret-red new growth. Ideal for colourful borders, native gardens, or low-maintenance screening.

10. Melaleuca thymifolia ‘Purple Lace’

A soft, compact shrub with fine green foliage and purple frilly flowers. Perfect for borders, rockeries, or small garden spaces.

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Grevillea Lana Maree

Grevillea Lana Maree

Description: Grevillea 'Lana Maree' is a compact, low-growing, evergreen shrub that typically reaches up to 1 meter in height and spreads to about 1.5 meters. It is admired for its dense, fine-textured foliage and prolific flowering habit. The leaves are narrow, needle-like, and dark green, giving the plant a lush and intricate appearance. Flowers: The plant is known for its abundant clusters of bright pink to red flowers that bloom mainly in spring, with sporadic flowering throughout the year. The flowers are small, spider-like, and appear at the ends of the branches. They are highly attractive to nectar-feeding birds and insects, adding vibrant life to any garden. Cultivation: Grevillea 'Lana Maree' is well-suited to a variety of Australian garden styles, including native, coastal, and cottage gardens. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. This plant can tolerate sandy, loamy, and even slightly clay soils, provided they drain well. It is particularly well-suited to coastal conditions and can handle salty winds. Watering: Once established, Grevillea 'Lana Maree' is very drought-tolerant. Watering should be moderate, with deep watering during extended dry periods. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Pruning: Light pruning after the main flowering period helps maintain a neat and compact shape and encourages more blooms. Avoid cutting into old wood, as this can damage the plant. Pests and Diseases: This Grevillea variety is generally pest-resistant. However, it can be prone to root rot in poorly drained soils and may show signs of chlorosis (yellowing leaves) if the soil lacks adequate nutrients, particularly iron. Using a native plant fertiliser can help mitigate these issues. Uses: Grevillea 'Lana Maree' is versatile and ideal for use as a ground cover, in garden borders, or in mass plantings. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller gardens and containers. The plant's bird-attracting flowers make it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. Environmental Benefits: As an Australian native, Grevillea 'Lana Maree' supports local biodiversity by providing nectar and habitat for native birds, bees, and other beneficial insects. Its low water requirements and adaptability to various conditions make it a sustainable choice for eco-friendly gardens. Care Tips: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot by planting in raised beds or using well-draining soil. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the stem to avoid rot. Fertilise with a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser designed for native plants to ensure optimal health and flowering. Monitor for iron deficiency and treat with chelated iron if needed. By including Grevillea 'Lana Maree' in your garden, you enhance its visual appeal and support the local ecosystem, creating a vibrant, sustainable, and wildlife-friendly environment Grevillea 'Lana Maree' Botanical Name: Grevillea 'Lana Maree' Common Name: Lana Maree Grevillea Family: Proteaceae Origin: Hybrid, developed in Australia

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Grevillea Loopy Lou TC

Grevillea Loopy Lou TC

Description:Grevillea ‘Loopy Lou’ is a hardy, fast-growing native shrub featuring unique, spider-like red flowers and fine, dense foliage. This compact variety is ideal for hedging, screening, and attracting wildlife, thriving in a range of Australian conditions. Flowers:Bright red, curled, spider-like flowers appear throughout the year, with peak flowering in spring and summer. Rich in nectar, attracting bees, butterflies, and native birds. Foliage:Fine, dense, deep green foliage with a soft, feathery texture. Fruit:Small seed pods may develop after flowering. Form & Size:Compact, bushy shrub reaching approximately 1–1.5m high and 1.2m wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Prefers full sun to part shade. Soil: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Climate: Suited to various Australian climates, including coastal areas and light frost zones. Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering. Uses: Ideal for hedging, screening, and native gardens. Great for attracting birds and pollinators. Suited to rockeries, mixed borders, and erosion control. Maintenance: Low-maintenance and easy to grow. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertilizer in spring. Notes: Bird and pollinator-friendly. Tolerates light frost and coastal exposure. Companion Plants:Pairs well with Callistemon, Westringia, and Lomandra for a balanced native garden. Common Name: Loopy Lou GrevilleaBotanical Name: Grevillea ‘Loopy Lou’Family: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

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Grevillea Soopa Doopa TC

Grevillea Soopa Doopa TC

Description:Grevillea ‘Soopa Doopa’ is a compact and hardy native shrub known for its striking bright pink and cream flowers and fine, soft green foliage. This eye-catching variety is ideal for low hedging, feature planting, and attracting birds and pollinators, thriving in a wide range of Australian garden conditions. Flowers:Large, spider-like pink and cream flowers are produced in abundance from winter through spring, with spot flowering at other times of the year. The nectar-rich blooms are a magnet for birds, bees, and butterflies. Foliage:Soft, fine, deeply divided green leaves form a dense, rounded shrub, providing year-round greenery. Fruit:Small seed pods may develop after flowering. Form & Size:Compact, bushy shrub growing approximately 1.5m high and 1.5m wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Prefers full sun but will tolerate part shade. Soil: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Climate: Suited to a variety of Australian climates, including coastal areas and regions with light frost. Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but appreciates occasional deep watering, particularly during extended dry periods. Uses: Excellent for low hedging, screening, and feature planting. Perfect for native gardens and bird-attracting landscapes. Suitable for container growing in small spaces. Maintenance: Low-maintenance and easy to grow. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Notes: Bird and pollinator-friendly variety. Handles coastal exposure, light frost, and dry conditions. Companion Plants:Pairs beautifully with Lomandra, Westringia, and Callistemon for a colourful and water-wise native garden. Common Name: Soopa Doopa GrevilleaBotanical Name: Grevillea ‘Soopa Doopa’Family: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

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Grevillea Lemon Baby

Grevillea Lemon Baby

Description:Grevillea 'Lemon Baby' is a compact, evergreen shrub admired for its soft lemon-yellow flowers and finely textured foliage. This Australian native is well-suited to small gardens, borders, and rockeries, bringing year-round interest with its dense growth and bright blooms. Its hardy nature and low maintenance make it an ideal choice for a variety of landscape settings. Flowers:In spring and summer, 'Lemon Baby' produces clusters of delicate, lemon-yellow, spider-like flowers that add a gentle pop of color. These nectar-rich blooms attract birds, bees, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Foliage:The plant has narrow, soft green leaves with a fine texture that provides a lush, feathery appearance. The foliage remains vibrant year-round, creating a soft backdrop for the striking yellow flowers. Fruit:This variety does not produce notable fruit, as its primary ornamental value lies in its flowers and foliage. Form and Size:'Lemon Baby' has a neat, compact growth habit, typically reaching a height of 0.5 to 1 meter and spreading up to 1 meter. Its tidy form and low stature make it ideal for borders, small garden spaces, and container planting. Growing Conditions:This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. It can also withstand light frosts, making it adaptable to various climates. Uses:'Lemon Baby' is versatile in landscaping, often used as a border plant, ground cover, or in rockeries. Its compact form and bright flowers make it an excellent choice for small gardens, patios, and balconies, as well as in mixed native plantings for a layered effect. Maintenance:This variety is low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. Light trimming after flowering can help maintain a neat appearance and encourage bushier growth. Apply a native-friendly, low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring to support healthy foliage and flowering. Notes:'Lemon Baby' is a resilient and attractive addition to gardens, particularly those with limited space. Its bright yellow flowers and ease of care make it a popular choice for enhancing the beauty of Australian landscapes. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other low-growing natives such as Correa, Dianella, and Lomandra. It also complements small shrubs and grasses, adding texture and color to mixed plantings. Common Name: Lemon BabyBotanical Name: Grevillea 'Lemon Baby'Family: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

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Banksia Spinulosa

Banksia Spinulosa

Description:Banksia spinulosa, commonly known as Hairpin Banksia, is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to Australia. It is prized for its distinctive cylindrical flower spikes, which vary in color from golden-yellow to orange, and its fine, needle-like foliage. This versatile and drought-tolerant shrub is highly valued for its ability to attract wildlife, particularly birds and pollinators. Its compact size and long flowering period make it an excellent choice for both native and ornamental gardens. Flowers:The cylindrical flower spikes of Banksia spinulosa are typically golden-yellow with darker styles, resembling hairpins, hence the common name. The flowers appear primarily in autumn and winter, but sporadic blooms may occur throughout the year. These nectar-rich flowers attract a wide range of pollinators, including birds, bees, and butterflies. Foliage:The foliage consists of fine, needle-like leaves that are dark green and leathery. The leaves are slender and serrated along the edges, providing a delicate texture that contrasts with the bold flower spikes. The dense foliage creates a lush, full appearance, making the plant suitable for hedging or as a feature shrub. Fruit:After flowering, woody seed cones develop. These cones can remain on the plant for several years, gradually opening to release seeds. The cones add structural interest to the plant but are not a primary ornamental feature. Form and Size:Banksia spinulosa is a compact shrub, typically growing to 1.5–2 meters in height and 1–2 meters in width. Its naturally bushy growth habit and manageable size make it suitable for a variety of garden settings, from formal borders to informal native gardens. Growing Conditions:Thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. Banksia spinulosa is highly drought-tolerant once established and performs well in a variety of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. It can tolerate light frosts and is ideal for low-maintenance, water-wise gardens. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Uses:Banksia spinulosa is ideal as a feature shrub, in mixed native garden beds, or as a low hedge. Its attractive flowers and dense foliage make it perfect for wildlife gardens, particularly for attracting nectar-feeding birds and insects. Its compact form and drought tolerance also make it suitable for coastal gardens or areas with low water availability. Maintenance:Low-maintenance and tough, Banksia spinulosa requires minimal care once established. Light pruning after flowering will help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Avoid overwatering, as the plant prefers well-drained conditions. Apply a low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Notes:Banksia spinulosa is fire-retardant, making it a good choice for areas prone to bushfires. It is also highly resilient to drought and poor soils, making it an excellent addition to sustainable, low-water gardens. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other Australian natives such as Grevillea, Callistemon, and Leptospermum. Its bold flower spikes and fine foliage also contrast beautifully with grasses like Lomandra or silver-leaved plants such as Eremophila. Common Name: Hairpin BanksiaBotanical Name: Banksia spinulosaFamily: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

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Banksia spinulosa dwarf 'Honey Eater Delight'

Banksia spinulosa dwarf 'Honey Eater Delight'

Description:Banksia spinulosa dwarf ‘Honey Eater’s Delight’ is a compact, bird-attracting Australian native shrub that produces a vibrant display of golden-orange flower spikes with red styles. This low-growing cultivar is perfect for smaller gardens, borders, native planting schemes, or feature pots, providing year-round interest and colour with minimal maintenance. Its dense, bushy habit and reliable flowering make it a standout in any landscape. Flowers:Golden-orange cylindrical flower spikes with contrasting red styles bloom from autumn through winter and into early spring. Rich in nectar, they attract honeyeaters, bees, and other pollinators. Foliage:Fine, narrow dark green leaves with toothed edges form a dense, compact mound. The foliage remains evergreen and adds texture to garden beds year-round. Fruit:Woody seed cones may develop after flowering, adding rustic texture and interest. Form & Size:Compact, rounded shrub growing approximately 1–1.2m high and 1–1.5m wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Prefers full sun to part shade. Soil: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Avoid heavy or poorly drained soils. Climate: Tolerates frost, drought, and coastal exposure once established. Watering: Low water needs once established. Water deeply during extended dry periods. Uses: Ideal for borders, native garden beds, and low hedging. Great in containers or small garden spaces. Perfect for attracting birds and insects to wildlife-friendly gardens. Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Light pruning after flowering encourages a dense, compact shape. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in spring to support flowering and health. Notes: Fire-retardant species – suitable for bushfire-prone areas. Non-invasive and well-behaved in formal or informal gardens. Long-flowering and highly ornamental. Companion Plants:Pairs beautifully with Lomandra, Grevillea, Callistemon, and Correa for a diverse and drought-tolerant native planting palette. Common Name: Honey Eater’s Delight BanksiaBotanical Name: Banksia spinulosa ‘Honey Eater’s Delight’Family: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia (cultivar)

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Grevillea Little Robyn TC

Grevillea Little Robyn TC

Description:Grevillea ‘Little Robyn’ TC is a compact, fast-growing native shrub with soft green foliage and eye-catching red spider flowers. This hardy, low-maintenance variety is perfect for hedging, borders, and attracting wildlife, thriving in a range of Australian conditions. Flowers:Bright red spider-like flowers appear in abundance from autumn to spring, providing a valuable nectar source for birds and pollinators. Foliage:Fine, dense, soft green foliage with a feathery texture, forming a naturally rounded shape. Fruit:Small seed pods may develop after flowering. Form & Size:Compact, bushy shrub reaching approximately 1.5m high and 1.5m wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Prefers full sun to part shade. Soil: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Climate: Suited to various Australian climates, including coastal areas and light frost zones. Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering. Uses: Ideal for hedging, borders, and low-maintenance gardens. Great for attracting birds, bees, and butterflies. Suitable for rockeries, native gardens, and erosion control. Maintenance: Low-maintenance and easy to grow. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertilizer in spring. Notes: Bird and pollinator-friendly. Tolerates coastal exposure, light frost, and dry conditions. Companion Plants:Pairs well with Callistemon, Westringia, and Lomandra for a balanced native garden. Common Name: Little Robyn GrevilleaBotanical Name: Grevillea ‘Little Robyn’ TCFamily: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

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Leptospermum Little Lemon Scent PBR

Leptospermum Little Lemon Scent PBR

Description:Leptospermum ‘Little Lemon Scent’ PBR is a compact, dense-growing native shrub with aromatic lemon-scented foliage and masses of soft pink flowers. This hardy, low-maintenance variety is ideal for hedging, borders, and feature planting, thriving in a wide range of Australian conditions. Flowers:Delicate soft pink flowers cover the plant in spring and summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. Foliage:Fine, aromatic, lemon-scented green foliage, creating a lush, dense appearance. Fruit:Small woody seed capsules develop after flowering. Form & Size:Compact, bushy shrub reaching approximately 1.5m high and 1.2m wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Prefers full sun to part shade. Soil: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Climate: Suited to various Australian climates, including coastal areas and light frost zones. Watering: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering. Uses: Ideal for hedging, borders, and feature planting. Great for attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. Suitable for native gardens, mixed borders, and container planting. Maintenance: Low-maintenance and easy to grow. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Apply a slow-release native fertilizer in spring. Notes: Bird and pollinator-friendly. Tolerates coastal exposure, light frost, and dry conditions. Companion Plants:Pairs well with Grevillea, Callistemon, and Westringia for a balanced native garden. Common Name: Little Lemon Scent Tea TreeBotanical Name: Leptospermum ‘Little Lemon Scent’ PBRFamily: MyrtaceaeOrigin: Australia

Regular price $15.00 AUD
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Melaleuca Claret Tops

Melaleuca Claret Tops

Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' Description: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' is a striking evergreen shrub known for its vibrant claret-colored new growth and attractive, fine-textured foliage. This Australian native plant is highly valued for its ornamental appeal and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for a variety of garden landscapes. Flowers: The flowers of Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' are small, white, and appear in dense, fluffy clusters along the stems. Blooming from late spring to early summer, these charming flowers contrast beautifully with the plant's foliage and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Foliage: The foliage of 'Claret Tops' consists of small, narrow leaves that are bright green, providing a lush, fine-textured appearance. The new growth emerges in a striking claret-red color, which gradually matures to green, creating an attractive contrast and adding to the plant's visual appeal. Form and Size: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' has a bushy, upright growth habit, typically reaching up to 1.5-2 meters (5-6.5 feet) in height and 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) in spread. Its compact form makes it ideal for use as a hedge, border plant, or in mixed shrub plantings. Growing Conditions: Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Thrives in bright light but can tolerate some shade, particularly in hotter climates. Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Adapts well to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, and prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. Water: Low to moderate water requirements once established. Water regularly during the growing season to establish roots and reduce watering as the plant matures. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during extended dry periods. Temperature: Thrives in warm, temperate to subtropical climates. Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Protect from frost and extreme cold. Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity levels. Suitable for typical garden conditions without the need for additional humidity. Uses: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' is primarily grown for its ornamental value. It makes an excellent hedge or border plant, providing a dense, evergreen screen. The plant's colorful new growth and lush foliage add visual interest to garden beds, borders, and large containers. It is also well-suited for use in native and wildlife gardens, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. Maintenance: This plant is relatively low-maintenance. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant healthy. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize lightly in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Notes: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' is non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and children. It is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects, which can be treated with appropriate insecticides. Companion Plants: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' pairs well with other low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants with similar growing requirements, such as: Grevillea species Callistemon species (Bottlebrush) Westringia fruticosa (Coastal Rosemary) Correa species Common Name: Claret Tops Botanical Name: Melaleuca 'Claret Tops' Family: Myrtaceae Origin: Native to Australia, cultivated as an ornamental plant variety

Regular price $14.95 AUD
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Melaleuca thymifolia Purple Lace

Melaleuca thymifolia Purple Lace

Description:Melaleuca thymifolia ‘Purple Lace’ is a compact, fine-leaved native shrub prized for its soft, feathery foliage and frilly purple flowers that appear over a long season. With its tidy growth habit and reliable flowering, it is ideal for borders, native gardens, and container planting. This resilient variety performs well in a range of conditions and adds delicate texture and colour to low-maintenance landscapes. Flowers:Masses of vibrant purple, frilly flowers bloom from spring through to autumn, with spot flowering in mild climates. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. Foliage:Fine, needle-like green foliage gives the plant a soft, airy appearance while maintaining density. The foliage is aromatic when crushed. Fruit:Small, woody seed capsules may form after flowering, typical of Melaleuca species. Form & Size:Neat, rounded shrub growing approximately 60cm–1m high and wide. Growing Conditions: Position: Grows best in full sun to part shade. Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, including sandy and clay soils; adaptable to both dry and damp areas. Climate: Suitable for most Australian climates. Tolerates frost, coastal conditions, and short periods of waterlogging. Watering: Low water requirements once established but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Uses: Ideal for low borders, native garden beds, and rockeries. Great for mass planting, erosion control, or waterwise landscapes. Excellent in pots and containers for patios and small spaces. Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage further blooms. Apply a slow-release native fertiliser in spring for best growth and flowering. Notes: Bird, bee, and butterfly-friendly. A beautiful soft-textured alternative to more rigid native shrubs. Thrives with little care, making it ideal for beginner gardeners. Companion Plants:Pairs well with Lomandra, Grevillea, Callistemon, and other compact natives for a diverse, drought-tolerant planting scheme. Common Name: Purple Lace Honey MyrtleBotanical Name: Melaleuca thymifolia ‘Purple Lace’Family: MyrtaceaeOrigin: Australia

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by Jason Kay – May 11, 2025