needlebush

Also known as: Information to be completed

H. lissosperma is a columnar shrub or small tree with leathery, upright-growing, needle-like grey-green leaves. Clusters of tubular, white flowers with curly petals appear in spring and summer at the ends of the branches, followed by dark brown, smooth or warty, oval seed pods

Scientific classification

Species: needlebush (Hakea lissosperma)
Genus: Hakea
Family: Proteaceae

Skin irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse · Shrubs
Plant type: 2.5-4 metres
Height: 1.5-2.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Columnar upright
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

needlebush pictures

Distribution of needlebush

Distribution map

Australia Tasmania

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Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of needlebush

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needlebush care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing slight drying between waterings
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing slight drying between waterings

Fertilizing

Balanced feed monthly during active growth season

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering. Plants grown under glass may need trimming to restrict size.

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown at 16°C as soon as ripe; sow singly to avoid root disturbance. Or root semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer

Growing

In mild areas grow in fertile, well-drained, sandy, slightly acid soil in full sun. Under glass grow in a mix of equal parts loam, peat substitute or leaf mould and sharp sand in full light. Apply phosphate-free fertiliser monthly in the growing season

More growing and care information →