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.