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Description
Hakea Pandanicarpa, commonly known as the Woolly Hakea or Pincushion Hakea, is a shrub species that belongs to the Proteaceae family. It is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height and 1-2 meters in width. The plant is native to Western Australia, particularly in the Wheatbelt and Great Southern regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Hakea |
Appearance
The Hakea Pandanicarpa has long, narrow leaves that are grey-green in color and covered in fine hairs, giving the plant a woolly appearance. The leaves are about 10-20 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The plant produces clusters of small, cylindrical flowers that are pinkish-white in color and resemble a pincushion. The flowers bloom in late winter to early spring, and are followed by woody seed pods that contain two seeds each.
Care Guide
The Hakea Pandanicarpa plant prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It requires full sun exposure and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first few years of growth, but should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fertilization is necessary during the growing season, but should be done sparingly to avoid over-fertilization. Pruning is recommended to maintain the plant’s shape and to prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hakea Pandanicarpa plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or planted in poorly-draining soils.
Habitat
The Hakea Pandanicarpa plant is native to Western Australia, particularly in the Wheatbelt and Great Southern regions. It grows in sandy or gravelly soils, often on hillsides or rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hakea Pandanicarpa plant suitable for container gardening?
A: While the plant can grow in a container, it may become too large and difficult to manage over time.
Q: How often should the Hakea Pandanicarpa plant be fertilized?
A: Fertilization should be done sparingly during the growing season, as over-fertilization can damage the plant.
Q: Can the Hakea Pandanicarpa plant be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed, but it may take several years to reach maturity.
Q: Does the Hakea Pandanicarpa plant attract wildlife?
A: The plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Hakea Acicularis
- Hakea Laurina
- Hakea Orthorrhyncha
- Hakea Sericea
References
- “Hakea Pandanicarpa.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 6 August 2021. <http://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2008/hakea-pandanicarpa.html>.
- “Hakea Pandanicarpa.” PlantNet. Accessed 6 August 2021. <http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hakea~pandanicarpa>.
- “Hakea Pandanicarpa.” Gardening Australia. Accessed 6 August 2021. <https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/hakea/9426678>.
