Rosemary Grevillea
grevillea rosmarinifolia
Also known as: ["Spider Flower","Rosemary Grevillea"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its fine, needle-like leaves and distinctive spider-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Grevillea |
| Botanical Name: | Grevillea rosmarinifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to light shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low phosphorus
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid overwatering; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates light frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months with slow-release fertilizer during growing season
Fertilize lightly during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; semi-hardwood cuttings are most successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is developing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger; increase diameter by 2–3 inches.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; ensure good drainage; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Grevillea rosmarinifolia. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Grevillea rosmarinifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGrevillea rosmarinifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Grevillea rosmarinifolia?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Grevillea rosmarinifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Grevillea rosmarinifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to light shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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