Contents
Description
Hakea Amplexicaulis is a shrub that belongs to the Proteaceae family. This plant is commonly known as the ‘clasp hakea’ due to the way its leaves clasp the stem. It is native to Western Australia and is a winter-flowering plant. The flowers are white or pink and are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant can grow up to 4 meters in height and 2 meters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Hakea |
Appearance
The Hakea Amplexicaulis has linear leaves that are 1-2 centimeters wide and 6-15 centimeters long. The leaves are green in color and can be smooth or hairy. The flowers are 3-5 centimeters long and are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The seeds are enclosed in woody follicles that are 2-3 centimeters long and 1-2 centimeters wide.
Care Guide
Water: The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season. It should be watered once a week or when the soil starts to dry out.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn. The fertilizer should be high in phosphorus and low in nitrogen.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy and loamy soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hakea Amplexicaulis is susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering. It can also be affected by leaf spot and stem canker. The plant can be attacked by spider mites and scale insects.
Habitat
The Hakea Amplexicaulis is native to Western Australia and is found in shrublands and woodlands. It grows in sandy and loamy soils and prefers areas with full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hakea Amplexicaulis a drought-tolerant plant?
A: The Hakea Amplexicaulis can tolerate drought to some extent, but it requires moderate watering during the growing season.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Hakea Amplexicaulis?
A: The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the Hakea Amplexicaulis?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Q: Can the Hakea Amplexicaulis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in late autumn or early winter.
Related Plants
- Hakea Acicularis
- Hakea Argutifolia
- Hakea Laurina
- Hakea Sericea
- Hakea Salicifolia
References
- http://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp1/hakea-amplex.html
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/hakea-amplexicaulis-clasp-hakea/
- https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/hakea-amplexicaulis-clasp-hakea.html
