Overview
Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Telopea, part of the Proteaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include sub-tropical, city and courtyard gardens, coastal and patio and container plants.
About
Telopea speciosissima, commonly known as the New South Wales waratah or simply waratah, is a large shrub in the plant family Proteaceae. It is endemic to New South Wales in Australia.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Telopea
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Sub-tropical, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah'
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe or leaf-bud cuttings with bottom heat in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally problem free
- Disease resistance
- Generally problem free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah'?
Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' need?
Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' hardy in the UK?
Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah' has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Telopea speciosissima 'Am Waratah'?
Semi-ripe or leaf-bud cuttings with bottom heat in summer.
More in the Telopea genus
- Telopea speciosissima 'Red Embers'waratah 'Red Embers'
- Telopea 'Burgundy'
- Telopea Georgie Girl ('Fitzgeo')
- Telopea Shady Lady Red