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Description
Grevillea Long John is a stunning evergreen shrub native to Australia. It is known for its unique foliage and showy flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, and it is often used as a focal point in landscaping. The leaves are narrow and needle-like, and they grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. The flowers are cylindrical and appear in clusters at the end of the branches. They range in color from pink to red and bloom throughout the year, with the heaviest flowering in winter and spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Grevillea |
Appearance
Grevillea Long John has narrow, needle-like leaves that are about 6 inches long. They are a blue-green color and grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. The flowers are cylindrical and about 3 inches long. They range in color from pink to red and bloom throughout the year, with the heaviest flowering in winter and spring. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, and it has a dense, bushy habit.
Care Guide
Water
Grevillea Long John prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize Grevillea Long John with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall. Do not over-fertilize, as this can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Soil
Grevillea Long John prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with sand and organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Grevillea Long John prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Hardiness Zones
Grevillea Long John is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown in colder zones if protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Grevillea Long John is susceptible to root rot if over-watered. It may also be attacked by spider mites and scale insects. Treat pests with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, and improve drainage to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Grevillea Long John is native to Australia and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Grevillea Long John?
A: Fertilize Grevillea Long John with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Q: Can Grevillea Long John tolerate shade?
A: Grevillea Long John prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Q: What pests are common on Grevillea Long John?
A: Grevillea Long John may be attacked by spider mites and scale insects. Treat pests with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Grevillea Long John?
A: Grevillea Long John is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown in colder zones if protected from frost.
Related Plants
- Grevillea lavender lace
- Grevillea rosmarinifolia
- Grevillea juniperina
References
- “Grevillea Long John.” Australian Native Plants Society. https://anpsa.org.au/g-long.html
- “Grevillea Long John.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1574
- “Grevillea Long John.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277337&isprofile=0
