NSW Waratah

The NSW Waratah (Telopea speciosissima) is one of Australia's most spectacular native shrubs, an upright, lignotuberous plant of 2 to 3m that carries giant crimson flower heads, up to 15cm across, ringed with showy bracts in spring. It is also the floral emblem of its home state. It rewards gardeners who can give it what it wants: deep, acidic soil and perfect drainage.

Why you'll love it

• Unmistakable crimson flowers. The huge domed heads are made of hundreds of tiny flowers and draw the eye from across the garden.
• Bird magnet. Honeyeaters and lorikeets feed on the nectar-rich blooms, so the garden fills with life in spring.
• Cut flower. The heads last well in a vase and make a dramatic indoor display.
• Evergreen structure. Leathery, toothed leaves keep the shrub tidy all year.
• Resprouts after fire or hard pruning. The woody base can regrow if the top is lost, giving it staying power.

Where it works best

Native gardens. Plant it with banksias, grevilleas and eucalypt woodland, in well-mulched beds. Space plants 2m apart.

Feature position. A single plant makes a strong focal point near a path or window, where the flowers can be seen.

Raised beds and slopes. Where drainage is doubtful, plant on a mound or slope so water cannot pool around the roots.

Growing NSW Waratah in Australia

Position and climate. Morning sun with afternoon protection, or filtered light under tall trees. It is best in warm temperate and cool temperate gardens with cool, moist winters. It struggles in humid subtropical and tropical conditions, where root diseases and heat take a toll.

Soil. Deep, acidic, perfectly drained soil rich in organic matter. Heavy clay and alkaline ground suit it poorly.

Water and feed. Water regularly in the first two summers, keeping the roots cool with a thick mulch of leaf litter. Use only a low-phosphorus native fertiliser, because high phosphorus can damage the roots.

Pruning. Cut spent flower heads off with a long stem for the vase, which also tip prunes and shapes the plant. Do not cut into old bare wood.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell NSW Waratah in 140mm pots in packs of 10, young plants that need a season or two of care to establish before they flower well. Plant carefully without disturbing the roots, mulch, and water in. This is a challenging plant, best placed in a prepared position. Our growers do not hold every size all year, so a size can show as on backorder at times. An order for a backorder size is confirmed with you before anything ships.

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

• Browse Australian natives
• Banksias to plant alongside
• A guide to rare Australian native plants

Common questions

Why do waratahs fail?

Poor drainage, high phosphorus and humid heat are the usual causes. Prepare the soil well and use only low-phosphorus fertiliser.

When does it flower?

In spring. Young plants may need a few years to bloom well.

Can it grow in a pot?

Yes, with a deep pot, premium native mix and good drainage, though ground planting is easier.