Family:

Proteaceae

Hakea microcarpa

Small-fruited Hakea

(syn. H. patula, H. bifrons, H. glabriflora)

Other Names: Small-fruit Hakea

First Nations Name(s):

Name Origin:

Hakea — after Baron Christian L. von Hake, 18-19th century German patron of botany.

microcarpa — from Greek micro, small, and carpos, fruit, referring to small fruit.

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Regional:

Noted only in Munderoo district. Possibly also in surrounding areas in similar country.

Australia:

Qld, NSW, Vic, Tas.

Habitat:

Wet situations in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland, including streamsides and bogs, or heathy swamps, mainly at higher altitudes.

Habit:

Small, rigid, open, spreading shrub to 2 m high. Cylindrical or flattened leaves 3-11 cm long on erect branches.

Site Preference:

Wet areas. Tolerates frost.

Flowering:

Creamy-white, spring-early summer. Conspicuous.

Seed Collection:

Monitor closely as seeds shed 3-14 days after maturity. Ensure collection by securing nylon stockings or paper bags over seed pods. Large quantities generally available.

Propagation:

From seed. Germinates readily from fresh seed. Suitable for direct seeding into pots.

VALUES:

Shade & Shelter:

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks in poorly drained sites.

Land Protection:

Useful for improving drainage in wet sites.

Wildlife:

Flowers are a food source for native insects. Foliage good refuge for small birds.

Ornamental:

Attractive, particularly when flowering or with open fruits. Easily cultivated. Prune regularly to promote branching.