Grevillea 'Lilliane'

Description: Grevillea 'Lilliane' is a compact, evergreen shrub that typically grows to about 1.5 meters in height and width. It is renowned for its attractive, finely divided foliage and stunning flowers. The leaves are dark green, deeply lobed, and have a soft, fern-like appearance, contributing to its delicate and graceful aesthetic.

Flowers: The plant produces an abundance of striking flowers from late winter through to spring, and often sporadically at other times of the year. The flowers are spider-like, with long, slender, curling petals that come in a vibrant shade of red, pink, or occasionally orange. These blooms are rich in nectar, making Grevillea 'Lilliane' a magnet for birds, especially honeyeaters, as well as bees and butterflies.

Cultivation: Grevillea 'Lilliane' is well-suited to Australian gardens due to its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs. It prefers a sunny position but can tolerate light shade. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and can handle a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It's important to avoid heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage.

Watering: Once established, Grevillea 'Lilliane' requires minimal watering. During prolonged dry periods, occasional deep watering will benefit the plant, but it is generally quite drought-tolerant.

Pruning: Light pruning after the main flowering period will help maintain a compact shape and encourage more prolific flowering. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as Grevilleas can be sensitive to this.

Pests and Diseases: Grevillea 'Lilliane' is relatively pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Watch for signs of chlorosis (yellowing leaves) which can indicate iron deficiency, often remedied by using a fertiliser suitable for Australian native plants.

Uses: This versatile shrub is excellent for use in garden borders, rockeries, and as a feature plant in native garden settings. Its bird-attracting properties make it ideal for wildlife gardens. Grevillea 'Lilliane' also works well in containers, providing a splash of colour and texture on patios or balconies.

Environmental Benefits: Being an Australian native, Grevillea 'Lilliane' plays a role in supporting local ecosystems. It provides food and habitat for native birds, bees, and butterflies. Additionally, its low water requirements make it a sustainable choice for water-wise gardening.

Care Tips:

• Ensure good drainage by planting in raised beds or mounds if necessary.
• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.
• Fertilise annually with a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser formulated for native plants.
• Monitor for iron deficiency and treat if needed.

By incorporating Grevillea 'Lilliane' into your garden, you not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to the local biodiversity, creating a vibrant and sustainable garden space.

Grevillea 'Lilliane'

Botanical Name: Grevillea 'Lilliane'

Common Name: Lilliane Grevillea

Family: Proteaceae

Origin: Hybrid, developed in Australia

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