Grevillea

Grevillea is a large genus of evergreen flowering plants in the family Proteaceae, native to Australia with a few species occurring in New Guinea and New Caledonia. The group comprises roughly 350 species that range from low ground-hugging shrubs to tall trees, occupying a wide array of habitats from coastal heath to inland woodlands. Leaves are diverse in form—sometimes simple and lanceolate, more often deeply lobed or needle-like—and are generally adapted to dry conditions, with many species possessing stiff, pointed leaf segments.

The flowers are distinctive, typically arranged in brush- or spider-like inflorescences that are rich in nectar and attract birds and insects. Flower colors span red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, and many species flower for extended periods.

Grevilleas are widely cultivated as ornamentals in Australia and in warm temperate regions worldwide. They are valued for drought tolerance, relatively slow growth, and wildlife appeal, especially nectar-feeding birds. In garden settings they serve as specimen plants, hedges, or screening, and many cultivars have been selected for a range of forms and flower colors. Ecologically, they contribute to nectar resources in native habitats; their root systems help with nutrient uptake in poor soils.

Taxonomically, the genus Grevillea was named in honor of Charles Francis Greville, and was described by Robert Brown in the early 19th century.