This must be one of the most recognisable Australian native flowers, its incredible two toned spherical flower pops out at you from quite a distance. I love Hakea laurina it is such an obvious Australian bloom, it lasts well cut in a vase and looks fascinating even in bud.
These images are taken of a couple of specimens I have seen in Hobart, unfortunately this is a native plant that likes the southern states more than the humid north. However, there are now grafted forms available of Hakea laurina that should be less susceptible to fungal diseases and rot.
The straight species will grow to 4-6 metres high and 2-3 metres wide, it has a slightly weeping habit with leathery, green to bluish-green leaves and enjoys an open full sun to part shade position in a well drained soil.
The flowers are prolific attracting birds (honeyeater particularly), bees and other insects, Hakea laurina begins flowering in Winter and carries through until Spring.
Hakea laurina makes a useful screening plant or can be under pruned into a small feature tree, there is also a dwarf form available called ‘Stockdale Sensation’. Hakea laurina is tolerant of heavy frost and high winds, it appreciates a light prune after flowering.
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