Bushy Needlewood

A tough, evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves, attractive red stems on new growth and delicate pink-white flowers that smell like honey. The woody, bird-shaped capsules, are retained on the plant, splitting to release papery seeds.

A striking feature plant, particularly when surrounded by lower growing species.  Our locally occurring Bushy Needlewood is Hakea decurrens subsp. physocarpa. Tolerant of drought, wind and frost, this is a tough but slow growing shrub. Sensitive to phosphorous (so avoid fertilisers containing phosphorous). Huge habitat value for bird refuge and nesting and for nectar-rich flowers in winter. Can be pruned to increase density.