Grevillea 'Big Red': An Overview
Grevillea 'Big Red' is a hybrid of Grevillea bipinnatifida and Grevillea banksii, belonging to the family Proteaceae. It is a popular garden plant that originates from Australia. This stunning plant is known for its attractive flowers, unique texture, and hardiness.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Big Red' due to its large, bright red flowers. Other common names include 'Red Spider Flower,' 'Banksia Grevillea,' and 'Fireworks.'
Uses
Grevillea 'Big Red' is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and other public spaces due to its striking appearance. It is also known to attract birds, bees, and other pollinators. The nectar produced by the flowers is used by honey producers to make high-quality honey.
General Appearance
Grevillea 'Big Red' is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has bipinnate leaves with a dark green glossy surface. The flowers are held on long, slender stems and are shaped like spiderlegs. The flowers of Grevillea 'Big Red' typically bloom in the winter, spring, and summer seasons, showcasing the vibrant shades of scarlet, orange and yellow. The plant prefers full sun to semi-shade and well-drained soil.
Overall, Grevillea 'Big Red' is a beautiful, versatile, and beneficial plant that is easy to grow. Its stunning flowers and unique texture make it a popular choice among gardeners and flower enthusiasts.Light Requirements
Grevillea 'Big Red' requires full sun to grow properly. It thrives in bright light conditions and will not grow in areas with less than 6 hours of direct sunlight. Shaded areas can cause the plant to grow leggy and become susceptible to certain pests and diseases.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil, with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy soil, loam, or clay. However, the soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter to support healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Grevillea 'Big Red' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prefers a warm climate with mild winters. It can grow in areas with temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C), but will require winter protection in such areas. The ideal temperatures for growth are between 60°F (16°C) and 80°F (27°C).
Watering Requirements
The plant has moderate water requirements and can tolerate drought conditions. However, it is important to water it regularly during the first few months after planting to establish proper growth. In general, the plant should be watered deeply, but infrequently, to encourage deep root growth and prevent waterlogging of the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Grevillea 'Big Red' is a low maintenance and drought-tolerant plant that grows well in well-draining soil, preferably sandy or loamy soils. Plant it in an area with full sun exposure and ensure that it has enough space to grow, as it can reach up to 2 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide. It is best to plant it during the start of spring or autumn when the temperatures are milder.
Watering Needs
Water the Grevillea 'Big Red' plant once every week during the first year after planting it, during the hot and dry summer periods, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. After the first year, reduce the watering to every two to three weeks, also depending on the soil and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Grevillea 'Big Red' does not require too much fertilizer, as it is adapted to survive in low nutrient soils. It is best to fertilize it during the early spring months, using a slow-release fertilizer with low nitrogen and high phosphorus content, preferably one designed for native plants.
Pruning
Pruning the Grevillea 'Big Red' plant helps to keep it looking good whilst extending its life. You can start pruning it during the early summer months, removing the dead and yellowing leaves, and cutting back the dead branches. It is essential to avoid cutting back its thick branches as this can cause the plant to die off. Remove the dead flowers as they die off to encourage more blooming.
Propagation of Grevillea 'Big Red'
Propagation of Grevillea 'Big Red' can be done through different methods including:
1. Seed Propagation
Seeds of Grevillea 'Big Red' can be collected from the parent plant during autumn or early winter. The seeds must be cleaned and dried before planting. They can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are ready to be planted in the garden.
2. Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can be taken from the parent plant during spring or summer. The cuttings should be semi-hardwood, about 7-10cm long and free of flowers. The cuttings must be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. It is best to cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are ready to be planted in the garden.
3. Grafting Propagation
Grevillea 'Big Red' can also be propagated through grafting. This method is often used to propagate cultivars that cannot be propagated through cuttings or seed. The grafting is usually done on a rootstock of a related species. The scion (the plant to be propagated) and the rootstock must be of the same diameter. The cut surfaces must be lined up and bound together until the graft has healed. The grafted plant should be kept in a protected environment until it has established.
Propagation is a great way to propagate Grevillea 'Big Red' and increase the number of plants in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Grevillea 'Big Red'
Grevillea 'Big Red' is a popular cultivar of the Grevillea family. Although relatively disease-resistant, it may still fall prey to common diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that can affect the roots and crown of Grevillea 'Big Red', causing wilt, yellowing leaves, and ultimately death. To manage this disease, improve drainage in the soil to prevent waterlogging, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper soil aeration. Fungicides may be used to control the disease, but prevention is the best approach.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown or black lesions and premature leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and practice good sanitation by disposing of them properly. Fungicides may be used to control the disease, but proper cultural practices will aid in preventing it.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites can infest Grevillea 'Big Red', sucking the sap from the leaves and causing damage like yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, spray the affected plant with a forceful blast of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them. When using insecticides, ensure to follow the instructions on the label carefully to avoid damaging the plant.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew through the leaves of Grevillea 'Big Red', causing skeletonization of the leaves, stunted growth, and reduced flowering. To manage caterpillars, handpicking may be used for small populations, otherwise, insecticides may be used to control them. Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a BT-toxin insecticide that is specific for caterpillars, thus would be safe to use on beneficial insects.
Grevillea 'Big Red' is a beautiful plant that is relatively immune to most diseases and pests. Maintaining good cultural practices such as watering, fertilization, and pruning can help keep the plant healthy. Early detection and quick response to diseases and pests are the keys to maintaining a healthy Grevillea 'Big Red'.
