Family:
Proteaceae
Grevillea floribunda
Rusty spider-flower
(syn. G. sphacelata, G. autumnalis, G. ferruginea)
Other Names: Seven Dwarfs’ Grevillea
Name Origin:
Grevillea — after Charles Francis Greville (1749-1809), co- founder of London Horticultural Society.
floribunda — from Latin floribundus, profusely flowering.
Regional Subspecies:
G. f. subsp. floribunda
Habit:
Erect or spreading shrub, 40 cm to 1.8 m high, velvety branches. Rusty and greenish flowers, year-round, mainly spring. Hardy, highly variable characteristics.
Habitat & Site Preference:
Dry sclerophyll forest or woodland on sandy soil, often in rocky situations. Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Tolerates extended dry periods and moderate frost. Prefers 300 – 450 mm rainfall in the Riverina.
Seed Collection & Propagation:
Monitor seed pods, as seeds shed soon after maturity. Propagate from seed or cuttings (strike readily), germination may be difficult.
Values & Uses:
Useful low-level windbreak cover. Excellent for attracting nectarfeeding birds. Decorative ornamental for gardens and tubs due to densely rusty-hairy flower-heads. Readily cultivated.