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Grevillea olivacea
Olive Grevillea
Grevillea olivacea
Grevillea olivacea is a shrub endemic to Western Australia, known for its attractive foliage resembling olive leaves and its vibrant orange or red 'toothbrush' flowers. It is a hardy plant that attracts birds and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 meters.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan20 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: animal

Notes: Primarily pollinated by birds, which are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers. Manual pollination can be performed to ensure seed production but isn't typically necessary.

Watering Requirements

Method: top water

Frequency: Water deeply when the soil is dry to the touch, especially during establishment. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Notes: Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soils, as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: moderate

Care InstructionsPrune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Range

Min: -4°C

Max: 38°C

Cultivars

Banksia speciosa
Showy Banksia
Banksia speciosa
Both plants thrive in similar well-drained soil conditions and attract similar pollinators, creating a vibrant and biodiverse garden environment.
Scale

Scale insects suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and honeydew production, which can attract sooty mold.

Spider Mites

Spider mites cause stippling on the leaves and can create webbing in severe infestations, leading to leaf drop and weakened plants.

Steps:

    • Take semi-hardwood cuttings (about 10-15cm long) from healthy, non-flowering growth in late spring or early summer.
    • Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top.
    • Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
    • Plant the cutting in a well-draining propagation mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss).
    • Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, sheltered location.
    • Roots should develop in a few weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot.

Neem Oil

Effective against scale and spider mites.

Seaweed Solution

Promotes root growth and overall plant health, particularly useful after propagation or transplanting.