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Description
Hakea Teretifolia, commonly known as the Dagger Hakea or Needlebush, is a flowering plant native to Australia. It belongs to the Proteaceae family and is a small to medium sized shrub that can grow up to 4m tall. It has a lignotuber and a single main stem that branches out into smaller stems. The leaves are long, narrow and cylindrical shaped with a sharp pointed tip that can grow up to 25cm long. The flowers are white or pink, cylindrical shaped and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is woody, oval shaped, and contains a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Hakea |
Appearance
Hakea Teretifolia has long, narrow, and cylindrical shaped leaves with a sharp pointed tip that can grow up to 25cm long. The leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. The flowers are white or pink, cylindrical shaped and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is woody, oval shaped, and contains a single seed. The bark of the plant is grey or brown and has a rough texture.
Care Guide
Hakea Teretifolia requires moderate watering and should be watered once a week during the growing season. It prefers well-drained soil and should be fertilized in the spring and summer months. The plant requires full sun exposure and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hakea Teretifolia is susceptible to root rot and should be planted in well-drained soil. It is also prone to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Hakea Teretifolia is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats including sand dunes, heathlands, and forests. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hakea Teretifolia drought tolerant?
A: Yes, Hakea Teretifolia is moderately drought tolerant and can survive with minimal watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hakea Teretifolia?
A: Hakea Teretifolia should be fertilized in the spring and summer months.
Q: Can Hakea Teretifolia tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Hakea Teretifolia can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Q: Does Hakea Teretifolia attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Hakea Teretifolia is a nectar-rich plant that attracts bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Hakea Acicularis
- Hakea Dactyloides
- Hakea Laurina
- Hakea Orthorrhyncha
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2006/hakea-teretifolia.html
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/hakea-teretifolia-needlebush/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hakea/hakea-teretifolia-needlebush.htm
- https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/hakea-teretifolia/9422252
