Grevillea 'Long John': Pink Red Shrimp-like Blossoms
Grevillea 'Long John': Pink Red Shrimp-like Blossoms
Grevillea 'Long John': A Striking Addition to Your Garden
Grevillea 'Long John' is a evergreen shrub from Australia boasts long, vibrant red and yellow flowers that are sure to turn heads. It's a magnet for birds and butterflies, so you'll have a front-row seat to nature's show.
The best part? It's super easy to care for! Just plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and you're good to go. It's drought-tolerant, so you won't have to worry about watering it too often. Plus, its spiky, evergreen foliage adds year-round interest to your garden.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Grevillea 'Long John' is a fantastic choice to add a touch of exotic beauty to your landscape.
Botanical Characteristics:
- Scientific Name: Grevillea banksii 'Long John'
- Growth Habit: Upright, bushy shrub
- Foliage: Dark green, pinnate leaves
- Flowers: Long, tubular, red and yellow flowers
- Bloom Time: Spring to summer
- Mature Size: 6-10 feet tall and wide
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
Cultivation and Care:
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil, ideally sandy or loamy.
- Water: Tolerant of drought once established, but benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
- Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
Landscape Use:
- Specimen Plant: A striking focal point in the garden.
- Hedge or Screen: Can be used to create a dense, colorful hedge.
- Container Gardening: Thrives in well-draining containers.
Wildlife Attraction:
- Pollinators: Attracts a variety of pollinators, including birds and bees.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food for small birds.
Pest and Disease Resistance:
- Resilient: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch for scale insects and fungal diseases in humid conditions.
Propagation:
- Cuttings: Propagate easily from stem cuttings.
- Seed: Can be grown from seed, but germination rates may vary.
Incorporating Grevillea 'Long John' into Your Landscape:
When designing your landscape, consider the following tips to maximize the impact of Grevillea 'Long John':
- Color Combinations: Pair with complementary plants, such as blue fescue, lavender, or other native shrubs.
- Textural Contrast: Contrast the fine-textured foliage with coarse-textured plants.
- Water-Wise Gardens: A perfect choice for drought-tolerant gardens.
- Coastal Gardens: Tolerates salt spray and wind, making it ideal for coastal gardens.