Grevillea obtusifolia Gingin Gem

Description:
Grevillea obtusifolia 'Gingin Gem' is a hardy, low-growing evergreen shrub prized for its dense, spreading habit and vibrant red-orange flowers. This Australian native is an excellent groundcover, ideal for large areas where a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant is required. Its dense foliage helps to suppress weeds and stabilize soil, while its flowers attract wildlife, particularly birds and pollinators, making it a valuable addition to native or wildlife gardens.

Flowers:
The plant produces striking, spider-like flowers in shades of red and orange, which appear primarily in winter and spring, with sporadic blooming throughout the year. These nectar-rich blooms attract birds, bees, and butterflies, adding both beauty and ecological value to the garden.

Foliage:
The fine, needle-like leaves are dark green and form a dense, matted groundcover. The foliage is soft to the touch and creates a lush, spreading mat, making it ideal for use as a groundcover or for erosion control on slopes. The evergreen foliage provides year-round interest in the landscape.

Fruit:
Small, woody seed pods may form after flowering, but these are not a major ornamental feature. The plant's primary focus is on its flowers and dense foliage.

Form and Size:
Grevillea 'Gingin Gem' is a low-growing, spreading shrub that typically reaches a height of 50-80 cm and can spread up to 3-4 meters wide. Its broad, mounding form makes it perfect for covering large areas, and it can be used as a groundcover, border plant, or for stabilizing slopes.

Growing Conditions:
Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Grevillea 'Gingin Gem' is highly drought-tolerant once established and performs well in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It is also tolerant of light frosts and coastal conditions, making it suitable for both inland and coastal gardens. Regular mulching will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Uses:
This plant is ideal for use as a groundcover, particularly in large garden beds, embankments, or coastal gardens where its spreading habit can stabilize soil and suppress weeds. Its vibrant flowers and dense foliage make it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens, where it attracts nectar-feeding birds and pollinators. Gingin Gem is also suitable for mass planting, rockeries, and as a low hedge.

Maintenance:
Low-maintenance and tough, Grevillea obtusifolia 'Gingin Gem' requires minimal care once established. Light pruning after flowering can help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Avoid overwatering, as the plant prefers well-drained conditions. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth and flowering.

Notes:
Grevillea 'Gingin Gem' is a highly resilient groundcover, perfect for water-wise and low-maintenance gardens. Its dense foliage and spreading habit make it particularly useful for erosion control, and its bright flowers add seasonal color to the landscape. Avoid using high-phosphorus fertilizers, as they can be harmful to Grevilleas.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with other low-growing Australian natives such as Westringia, Lomandra, and Leptospermum. It also works well in combination with taller shrubs or small trees like Banksia and Melaleuca for layered plantings in larger gardens.

Common Name: Gingin Gem Grevillea
Botanical Name: Grevillea obtusifolia 'Gingin Gem'
Family: Proteaceae
Origin: Australia

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