Overview

Hakea lissosperma is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Hakea, part of the Proteaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Hakea lissosperma grows best in full sun, and tolerates sand soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include coastal, patio and container plants, low maintenance and conservatory and greenhouse.

About

Hakea lissosperma, commonly known as needlebush, is a columnar upright evergreen shrub belonging to the Proteaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 4 metres with a spread of 1.5 to 2.5 metres, reaching full size over 10 to 20 years. This plant thrives in full sun on south-facing, sheltered aspects with well-drained, acidic sandy soil. It is suitable for conservatory or greenhouse cultivation and provides seasonal interest throughout spring, summer, and winter.

About the genus

Hakea is a genus of about 150 species of flowering plants in the family Proteaceae, endemic to Australia. They are shrubs or small trees with leaves that are sometimes flat, otherwise circular in cross section in which case they are sometimes divided. The flowers are usually arranged in groups in leaf axils and resemble those of other genera, especially Grevillea.

Wikipedia contributors, "Hakea", CC BY-SA 4.0Hakea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hakea

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sand
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Hakea lissosperma size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Conservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Patio and container plants, Low Maintenance, Conservatory and greenhouse

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hakea lissosperma

Propagation
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Hakea lissosperma?

Hakea lissosperma prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Hakea lissosperma need?

Hakea lissosperma grows best in sand soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

How big does Hakea lissosperma grow?

Hakea lissosperma reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.

Is Hakea lissosperma hardy in the UK?

Hakea lissosperma has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Hakea lissosperma?

Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings.

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