Willow-leaf Hakea
hakea salicifolia
Also known as: ["Willow-leaved Hakea","Silkpod Hakea"]
Overview
An evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its willow-like leaves and attractive, cream-colored flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Hakea |
| Botanical Name: | Hakea salicifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny position
- 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 to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter and sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix of potting soil, sand, and compost; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for consistent results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and shaded.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F / 18–24°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; best done after flowering to avoid removing buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot or planting site to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during growing season only; monitor for signs of nutrient burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHakea salicifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known toxins that would adversely affect feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHakea salicifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating that this plant poses a risk to canine health through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHakea salicifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hakea salicifolia suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and can thrive in coastal environments.
Q: Does Hakea salicifolia require pruning?
A: Light pruning after flowering can help maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Hakea salicifolia?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, with good tolerance to drought once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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