How to grow moonlight grevillea
Overview
Moonlight Grevillea is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub prized for its large, creamy-white spider-like flowers and finely divided foliage. It provides reliable structure and texture in the garden, linking bolder feature plants. It thrives in warm, sunny positions with well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Soil Preparation
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–6.5) and sandy or loamy soils that drain freely. If planting in heavy clay, amend with gypsum and coarse sand to improve drainage. Avoid adding lime or high-phosphorus amendments.
Growing Guide
Plant in a sunny, open position with free-draining soil; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites. Space plants 1.5–2 metres apart for a dense screen or hedge. Dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball, backfill with native soil, and water in well. Do not disturb the roots excessively at planting. Mulch with gravel or coarse bark to keep the root zone cool and dry.
Sowing
Grevillea banksii is typically grown from semi-hardwood cuttings rather than seed, as seed germination is slow and variable. Cuttings taken in late summer root readily in a free-draining mix. If growing from seed, scarify and soak for 24 hours, then sow 5 mm deep in a warm, well-drained seed-raising mix.
Care
Feed with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in spring and autumn. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage dense growth. Remove spent flower heads to prolong blooming. Do not apply high-phosphorus fertilisers or manure.
Companion Planting
Grows well with other low-water natives like Callistemon, Eremophila, and Westringia. Avoid planting near heavy feeders like citrus or vegetables that require frequent watering and high phosphorus, as this can harm the grevillea.
Common Pests & Risks
Scale insects can appear on stems and leaves; treat with horticultural oil or neem oil in early stages. Root rot (Phytophthora) is a risk in poorly drained or overwatered soil; ensure free drainage and avoid overwatering. Leaf spot can occur in humid conditions; improve air circulation around the plant.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: often caused by overwatering or poor drainage; reduce watering and improve soil drainage. Brown leaf tips: can be from salt burn or high phosphorus; flush soil with water and switch to low-phosphorus fertiliser. Sparse flowering: usually from too much shade or over-fertilising with nitrogen; move to full sun and reduce feeding. Stunted growth: check for root rot in wet soil; improve drainage and avoid overwatering. Leaf drop: may be from cold damage; protect from frost or move to a warmer position.