Lime Spider Grevillea (Grevillea 'Lime Spider') grows into a dense small tree 4m to 5m tall and only 2m to 3m wide. Finely divided, variegated foliage holds yellow colour all year, and long-lasting golden orange-yellow flowers, rich in honey, attract birds. It is a close cousin of 'Honey Gem' and suits feature planting and avenues.
Why you'll love it
-
Yellow colour all year. The bright variegated, ferny foliage keeps the plant golden even when it is not in flower.
-
Long-lasting flowers. Golden orange-yellow brushes hold their colour for a long season in a full sun position.
-
A bird attractor. The honey-rich flowers draw nectar-feeding birds to the garden.
-
A wide climate range. It is happy in gardens from the subtropics to the cool highlands.
-
Slim for a tree. At 2m to 3m wide it fits narrower beds than most trees of its height.
Where it works best
Feature tree. Plant it as a single small tree where its yellow foliage can be seen against a darker background, such as a fence or a stand of green shrubs.
Avenue plantings. Plant 3m apart along a driveway or boundary. The slim crowns form a continuous, colourful line without taking over the space.
Bird gardens. Use it as the tall layer in a native bird planting, with lower grevilleas and correas beneath.
Growing Lime Spider Grevillea in Australia
Position and climate. Full sun gives the longest flowering season. It suits reasonably cold temperatures as well as subtropical climates, and it is happy from the subtropics to cool highlands.
Soil. Plant in well drained soil. Mulch after planting to keep the roots cool and moist while it establishes.
Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, which usually takes around 12 weeks. After that it is drought tolerant. Feed with a slow release native fertiliser when buds form, with phosphorus under 3 per cent.
Pruning. Prune after flowering to promote a dense habit and prolific flowering next season. Prune lightly and often rather than hard and rarely.
What to expect when it arrives
We sell Lime Spider Grevillea as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a small young plant. It builds into a small tree over several seasons, so use stakes only if the site is windy. Availability of the tube depends on our grower, who does not always have it ready. A sold out tube is simply waiting for the next batch, and the notify button on the page sends you an email the day it is back.
Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.
Plant care guides and related reading
Common questions
How big does Lime Spider get?
Expect a dense small tree of 4m to 5m high and 2m to 3m wide. It is slimmer than many trees of that height.
Does the foliage stay yellow?
Yes. The variegated, finely divided leaves hold their yellow colour all year, not just during flowering.
Is it related to Honey Gem?
Yes, it is a close cousin. It shares the honey-rich flowers that birds love, with brighter variegated foliage.