This is probably Grevillea buxifolia subsp. buxifolia which is not to be confused with Grevillea sphacelata, in the Grevillea bibles by Peter Olde and Neil Marriott sphacelata a “Related or confusing species”. This couldn’t be more apt, I spent some time going down a plant nerd rabbit hole on this. These photos were taken in the Royal National Park near Heathcote. This species is commonly found in heath or dry sclerophyll forest in skeletal, sandy soil on sandstone. From speaking to a grower of sphacelata I have concluded that the flowers of buxifolia are less pink and more grey, as well as being a taller shrub with wider leaves. Other buxifolia subspecies are ecorniculata and phylicoides, just in case you were wondering.

Grevillea buxifolia is a medium shrub growing up to 2mts tall with a spread just as wide flowers from July through to November. In the image above you can see it growing with other wildflowers: like Boronia, Grevillea oleoides and Pultenaea stipularis.

Growing in open forest and woodland as well as along the coast of NSW. The flowers are classic of a Grevillea being spider-like and globular. They appear as a shade of grey on the end of branches, slightly hairy, from late winter to spring.

Grevillea buxifolia is a lovely shrub even when not in flower, the attractive, upright foliage has bronze or reddish new growth for many months of the year. The pinkish-grey flower heads are borne at the end of the branchlets in prominent heads and are lightly scented especially in the middle of the day.

Grevillea buxifolia prefers a well drained sunny position, can be semi-shaded. It withstands extended dry periods once established and is tolerant of moderate frosts.

Grevillea buxifolia can be pruned into a dense shrub by tip pruning after flowering, although I quite like its spreading and arching natural habit. This species also grows well in a pot as it gives it the sharp drainage it requires. Use a sandy/peaty mix with a slow release native fertiliser.

It makes an unusual feature shrub and would suit a native cottage or wildflower style garden.