Telopea Gembrook

Description:
Telopea 'Gembrook', commonly known as Waratah, is a beautiful Australian native shrub admired for its large, showy red flower heads and glossy, green foliage. This compact and hardy plant is ideal for a wide range of garden settings, from native gardens to mixed borders, where its striking blooms add a bold statement. 'Gembrook' is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, high-impact plant.

Flowers:
The vibrant red, dome-shaped flower heads of Telopea 'Gembrook' bloom in late spring and early summer, creating a stunning display of color. These large flowers, up to 15 cm in diameter, are composed of many small, tubular flowers rich in nectar, attracting birds, bees, and other pollinators. The brilliant red blooms provide a dramatic focal point in the garden and are also popular as cut flowers.

Foliage:
The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, providing a lush backdrop for the bold red flowers. The foliage is evergreen, maintaining its attractive appearance year-round. The lance-shaped leaves are finely serrated, adding texture and contrast to the plant's overall look.

Fruit:
After flowering, small, woody seed pods may form along the stems. These pods add a subtle textural element but are not the main ornamental feature of the plant.

Form and Size:
Telopea 'Gembrook' typically grows to around 2-3 meters in height and width. Its upright, bushy form and dense foliage make it suitable as a feature plant, screen, or hedge in small to medium-sized gardens.

Growing Conditions:
Telopea 'Gembrook' thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods. The plant is best suited for temperate and coastal climates and should be protected from heavy frost. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Uses:
This versatile shrub is ideal as a feature plant in native or mixed garden beds, where its striking flowers can be fully appreciated. It is also well-suited for use as a screening plant or informal hedge due to its dense growth habit. The flowers are highly valued for cut flower arrangements, making this plant both ornamental and functional.

Maintenance:
Low-maintenance and resilient, Telopea 'Gembrook' requires little care once established. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages fresh growth. Use a low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth and prolific flowering. Avoid overwatering, as the plant prefers well-drained conditions.

Notes:
Telopea 'Gembrook' is renowned for its showy flowers and hardiness, making it a popular choice for gardens seeking a bold, low-maintenance plant. Its long-lasting blooms and ability to attract wildlife add additional value to the landscape.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other Australian natives such as Grevillea, Banksia, and Callistemon. Its bold red flowers also contrast nicely with fine-textured plants like Lomandra or silver-leafed shrubs like Eremophila.

Common Name: Gembrook Waratah
Botanical Name: Telopea 'Gembrook'
Family: Proteaceae
Origin: Australia

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