Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Adenanthos sericeus or Woolly bush

The genus Adenanthos is classified in the Proteaceae family with 30 species of small trees and shrubs native to Australia. Some species are: Adenanthos sericeus, Adenanthos cuneatus, Adenanthos obovatus, Adenanthos drummondii.

Common name: Woolly bush. This species is native to Western Australia.

It is a relatively fast growing evergreen shrub that reaches 5 meters (16.40 feet) height. It's most interesting for its feathery and soft foliage formed by fine silvery green leaves with hair that make them very soft to the touch. The flowers are red or orange but small in size. It can bloom almost throughout the year.

Due to its resistance to salinity and wind it is used in coastal gardens to form shrub groups, screens, as isolated specimens or in pots.

Adenanthos sericeus needs full sun or very light shade exposure (at least 4 hours of sun per day). It is capable of resisting frosts of -4 ºC (24.8 ºF).

The soil has to be light and very well drained; it can be grown on sandy ground. Potting is done in early spring when the roots appear below the container.

Woolly bush is a drought resistant plant, so watering will be moderate, waiting for the soil to be dry before watering again.

Adenanthos sericeus does not need special fertilizations but you can add a few of compost in late winter.

It is a plant resistant to pests and diseases that only fear excess water.

Adenanthos sericeus propagates from cuttings made in spring or in autumn.

Images of the shrub Adenanthos sericeus or Woolly bush