Grevillea rhyolitica

Grevillea rhyolitica, or Deua Grevillea, is an evergreen Australian bush that is particularly floriferous, a little frost-sensitive but very well adapted to pot culture in cold regions. Its coral-red, nectar-rich, tubular flowers gathered in slightly trailing inflorescences, somewhat resemble those of Embothrium. They bloom from December to September, or even all year round in very mild climates, among leaves that are rather large for the genus, with an ovate shape and pointed tips. A very beautiful species to discover and cultivate on a sunny terrace for those who want an exotic touch.

Grevillea rhyolitica is a bush from the proteaceae family endemic to the Deua National Park, located in New South Wales, Australia. Accustomed to very silica-rich volcanic rocks, it is a pioneering species in its natural environment: it tolerates fairly poor but non-chalky dry soils, and requires full sun to flower. It grows quite rapidly, reaching maturity in 3-4 years, and on average reaches 2m (6 ft 7 in) in all directions. This bush has a spreading and open habit. The entire, elliptical leaves are light green with a matte finish. The flowering period lasts for a good part of the year, with the peak between April and June-July. The flowers are small and gathered in large trailing inflorescences that have a spider-like shape. The petal-less flowers are composed of a tubular, bright red style and long stamens.

Grevillea rhyolitica is not difficult to grow as long as the conditions are met. This bush requires little maintenance and tolerates light and regular pruning, which will keep it dense. It is best planted in coastal gardens protected from heavy frosts, in light, well-draining, and slightly acidic soil. Particularly suited to Mediterranean climates, it will look good in a hedge or as a standalone plant, on large slopes or at the back of dry garden beds, but always in an open and sunny position. In an exotic garden, it can be associated with proteas, Agave, Aloe, Canary Island viper's bugloss, Euphorbia mellifera, evergreen ceanothus, Melianthus major, palm trees, or even Leptospermum. Container cultivation, which is particularly suitable for this species, allows for control of the substrate composition and overwintering of the bush in a cold greenhouse or a very bright and lightly heated conservatory.