Grevillea robusta Seeds | Silky Oak
LATIN NAME: Grevillea robusta
COMMON NAME: Silky Oak
Plant Profile
Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta) is a handsome tree. Silky oak is fast, handsome tree of warm east coast, and it has been planted around warm world for its fine, feathery foliage and its bright, showy flowers. Fern-like, silvery-green leaves give crown a soft, lacy look, and large, one-sided brushes of orange-gold flowers open through spring and early summer. Tree is a rich nectar source, and flowers pull in birds and bees from all around. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Grevillea robusta ranges from the botany of the Grevillea group to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. Silky oak has a steady place in plant science, and tree has been studied for its fast growth and its useful, attractive wood. Species like this one find a second career as research material, especially in propagation and breeding work.
Uses & Benefits
Silky Oak works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Silky oak is a tree of several uses. Strong, straight-grained wood is used for furniture, joinery and veneers, and tree has been planted for timber, shade and quick shelter. Bright, nectar-rich flowers make it a fine tree for bees and nectar-feeding birds, and fern-like foliage gives it a fine, ornamental presence. Routine care after establishment is refreshingly light.
Grevilleas are nectar-rich Australian ornamentals feeding birds and bees; some contain irritant compounds, so admire rather than ingest.
Growing from Seed
Starting Silky Oak from seed is simple and satisfying. Use a fine, free-draining seed compost, scatter the seed evenly, cover it lightly and hold it just moist in good light. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
Silky Oak settles in quickly once it finds its footing. Fresh seed sown into evenly moist compost is most of the battle won.
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