Family:

Proteaceae

Grevillea polybractea

Crimson Grevillea

Other Names:

First Nations Name(s):

Name Origin:

Grevillea — after Charles Francis Greville (1749-1809), co-founder of London Horticultural Society. 

polybractea — from Greek poly, many, and Latin bractea, bract, referring to many bracts which conceal buds.

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Regional:

Noted in eastern parts of the region, including the areas: Upper Back- Upper Jerra Jerra; Yarra Yarra; Coreinbob; O’Briens South & McLeods; Upper Kyeamba; Keajura; Upper Burkes; Major; Murraguldrie and Carabost.

Australia:

NSW, Vic.

Habitat:

Dry sclerophyll forest on granite soil.

Habit:

Spreading neat shrub, 30 cm to 1.8 m high, with rough hairy leaves.

Site Preference:

Slightly sheltered areas in well-drained soil. Tolerates open situations in full sun. Moderately frost tolerant.

Characteristics:

Prone to root-rot fungus and quickly dies if infected. Hybridises with Woolly Grevillea (G. lanigera) and Rosemary Grevillea (G. rosmarinifolia).

Flowering:

Red to pink with yellow or green, spring. Dense woolly flowerheads.

Seed Collection:

Summer. Monitor closely, as seeds shed soon after maturity. Secure nylon stockings or paper bags to fruiting branches after flowering to ensure collection.

Propagation:

From cuttings, which strike readily. Can be grafted onto Rosemary Grevillea.

VALUES:

Shade & Shelter:

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.

Wildlife:

Good habitat.

Ornamental:

Attractive. Interesting well-displayed flowers. Excellent in tubs. Prune from early age to retain low growth. Avoid excess watering.