Origin
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is a hybrid plant that was developed in Australia by breeder Peter Olde. It is a cross between Grevillea bipinnatifida and Grevillea alpina and was first introduced into the market in the 1990s.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as 'Boongala Spinebill' or simply Grevillea Spinebill.
Uses
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is often grown as a garden plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is also known for its ability to attract birds, particularly spinebills and honeyeaters, due to the nectar produced by its flowers.
General Appearance
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is a small to medium-sized shrub, growing up to 1.5 meters tall and 2 meters wide. The leaves are grayish-green and are divided into narrow segments, giving the plant a fern-like appearance. The flowers appear in clusters at the ends of branches and are pinkish-red in color with yellow tips. They bloom in winter and spring and are followed by cone-shaped fruit.
Light Requirements
The Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' requires full sun to partial shade. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to bloom properly. Placing the plant in a spot with too much shade might cause the plant to produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' grows best with a mild climate. The ideal temperature for the plant ranges between 68-86 °F (20-30 °C). The plant does not tolerate extreme temperatures, particularly frost, which can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' prefers well-drained soil and performs excellently in sandy loam soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting can increase the soil's drainage, aeration, and moisture-holding capacity, which will benefit the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods for Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is a tough plant that can handle various soil and environmental conditions. It grows well in sandy or loamy soil that is well-draining and slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The plant prefers a full-sun location and tolerates mild drought. If planting in a container, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball.
Watering Needs for Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' requires regular watering during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Afterward, it is recommended to water the plant thoroughly but infrequently. A soaking every 7-10 days should suffice, depending on temperature and soil conditions. Avoid over-watering, particularly in poorly drained soil, as too much water can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is a low-maintenance plant that does not need a lot of fertilizer. It prefers low phosphorus and high potassium feeds and responds well to slow-release fertilizers. It is recommended to fertilize the plant sparingly every spring and autumn with a balanced fertilizer or one formulated for native plants. Always follow the instructions on the package to avoid over-fertilization and burning of the plant's foliage.
Pruning Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' requires little pruning beyond removing any dead or diseased branches. If your plant becomes unruly or overgrown, it is recommended to selectively prune back the longest and oldest shoots after the flowering season. Never prune back more than one-third of the plant at once to avoid stressing the plant and weakening its growth. You can also tip-prune regularly to encourage bushiness and a fuller plant.
Propagation of Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is a hybrid cultivar that is usually propagated from cuttings. Propagation by seeds is also possible, but it can result in a range of variations in the progeny.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings from Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' can be taken at any time of the year, but spring and summer are the best seasons. Select a young, healthy shoot that is about 10 to 15 cm long and has at least three leaf nodes along its length. Remove the lower leaves, leaving one or two leaves at the top.
Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root formation. Place the cuttings in a potting mix that is well-draining, and keep them in a warm, bright spot with indirect sunlight. Water the cuttings regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
After six to eight weeks, root development should have occurred, and new shoots will appear. Transplant the new plants into larger pots or into the desired planting location.
Seed Propagation
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' can be grown from seed, but it takes a longer time to grow than propagation by cuttings. Collect the seeds from the mature plant and store them in a dry, cool place for up to six months.
Sow the seeds in a well-drained potting mix that is comprised of equal parts of sand, peat moss, or vermiculite. Place the seed tray in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist by regularly misting the seeds.
Seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed at least two pairs of true leaves. Provide the seedlings with a light, well-draining soil mix and keep them in a warm place with bright, indirect light. Transplant mature seedlings into the ground or larger pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'
Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' is generally a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, like all plants, it is still susceptible to some common issues that can affect its growth and overall health. Below are some diseases and pests that may affect Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' and methods to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: This is one of the major diseases that can affect Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill'. Symptoms include root decay, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If the disease has already affected the plant, consider applying a fungicide.
Canker: Canker is a fungal infection that causes sunken and discolored areas on stems and branches, eventually leading to dieback. The disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly. Excessive moisture and poor sanitation practices are the main contributors. The best way to manage canker is to remove the affected parts and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide on the remaining parts to prevent further infection.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing discoloration, wilting, and eventually, leaf drop. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure to wet all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves.
Mealybugs: These pests often appear as small, white, mealy insects on the plant's stems and leaves. They suck sap from the plant causing reduced growth and yellowing. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or a solution of rubbing alcohol and water. Also, ensure to remove any infected parts and dispose of them properly.
Following the above disease and pest management practices can keep Grevillea 'Boongala Spinebill' healthy and vibrant.
