Silky Grevillea

Silky Grevillea (Grevillea sericea) is a native shrub from the central coast of New South Wales that grows 1 to 2m tall and wide, with slender leaves that are silky and hairy underneath. Small curled pink-lilac flowers open from autumn to spring and bring in nectar-feeding birds, insects and native bees. It is a good fit for a native or coastal garden where you want a feature shrub that works for wildlife.

Why you'll love it

• A long season of flowers. Small curled flowers in shades of pink and lilac carry the garden from autumn through to spring.
• Native bees love it. The flowers draw native bees and other insects, and the plant is also grown for honey production.
• Birds feed on it. Nectar-feeding birds visit the blooms, so it earns its place in a wildlife planting.
• Hardy once settled. After the first year it tolerates drought and light frost.
• Textured foliage. The slender leaves are pale and silky underneath, which adds interest whenever a breeze turns them.

Where it works best

Wildlife and native gardens. Group it with other nectar plants so bees and birds have a feeding stop through the cooler months. Allow 1.5m between plants.

Coastal locations. It grows naturally on the New South Wales central coast and suits coastal gardens, provided the soil drains freely.

Feature planting. A rounded shrub of 1 to 2m is a good size for a corner, a path edge or the front of a border.

Growing Silky Grevillea in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun. It tolerates light frost and drought once established, which suits subtropical, warm temperate and Mediterranean climates. Size varies with the site: expect the smaller end in poor, dry or exposed ground and the larger end in a sheltered spot.

Soil. Well drained soil is the main requirement. Mulch the surface, and avoid heavy clay or low spots that stay wet.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for about 12 weeks until established. Feed with a slow release native fertiliser when buds form, with phosphorus under 3 per cent, because grevilleas are sensitive to it.

Pruning. Prune after flowering to encourage compact growth and plenty of blooms in the next season.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Silky Grevillea as tube stock (a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly) and in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Tubes suit a native garden planted in numbers, while 140mm pots give you a little more size from the start.

Tubes come from our grower, and supply is not always available. If the tube is marked sold out, the grower has none right now, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it returns.

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 all our grevilleas
• The grevillea care guide, including the phosphorus rule
• Plants for native bees
• More Australian native shrubs

Common questions

How big does Silky Grevillea get?

Between 1m and 2m tall and wide, depending on the site. Poorer, drier or more exposed spots give a smaller plant.

Does it attract native bees?

Yes. Native bees feed on the flowers in numbers, and the plant is also listed for honey production.

When should I prune it?

Straight after flowering. Pruning then keeps the shrub compact and sets it up for prolific blooms the following season.