Grevillea acanthifolia A.Cunn.

Taxonomic Identity

Grevillea acanthifolia A.Cunn. is an erect or spreading shrub.

Size and Growth Form

It typically reaches 0.5 meters (2 feet) in height, though it can sometimes grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall and 4 meters (10 feet) wide.

Leaf Structure

Its leaves are 4–9 cm (2–4 in) long and 3–7 cm (1–3 in) wide, with 9 to 14 main lobes; each lobe may be further divided, and ranges from linear to triangular or wedge-shaped, ending in a sharp tip.

Leaf Characteristics

The leaves themselves are bright green, stiff, and prickly.

Inflorescence Form

Flowers are arranged in one-sided, toothbrush-like clusters 3–10 cm (1–4 in) long.

Perianth Traits

The small sepals and petals are pale green to grey, hairy on the outside and glabrous on the inside.

Style Features

The style is 20–28 mm (0.8–1 in) long, red, and tipped with a green pollen presenter.

Flowering Period

Flowering can occur throughout the year, but peaks between October and February.

Fruit Traits

The fruit that develops after flowering is a hairy follicle marked with reddish patches.

Natural Distribution

This grevillea grows only in New South Wales, most commonly at higher altitudes in wet or boggy habitats.

Cultivation Notes

The Grevillea acanthifolia subspecies acanthifolia is cultivated in some gardens, but it is sometimes unreliable when grown at low altitudes.

Cultivation Requirements

It grows best in full sun and is tolerant of heavy frosts.