Natives are a popular choice for many reasons. They help support local wildlife and are well-adapted to the climate, soil, and water conditions, often requiring less maintenance.
And while Australia is home to an incredibly diverse range of native plants, new hybrids are constantly developed and introduced.
One stunning plant worth mentioning is the new hybrid grevillea, Boorloo Moon, created by the team at Kings Park.
New grevillea Boorloo Moon on the market
The plant was released to coincide with the 150 years since Kings Park gained legal protection as a reserve.
Named after a full moon rising over Boorloo (Perth City) as viewed from Mount Eliza, the Boorloo Moon grevillea stands out thanks to its compact form, extended flowering season, and brighter flower colour.
Kings Park senior plant breeder Digby Growns says: “Boorloo Moon makes for an excellent choice for smaller landscapes as it is naturally compact and hardy.
“It stands out from the crowd year-round with pink toothbrush flowers in bloom 12 months of the year, contrasting with oak-leaved foliage.”
He adds: “The flowers are popular with both insects and birds. As it grows with foliage to the ground, it also provides shelter for small urban mammals, such as bandicoots.”
As for how this new grevillea breed came about, Digby says it was a long process.
“It is the outcome of a long process; first selecting parents with desirable characteristics, before undertaking controlled pollination between the two parents by transferring pollen from one onto the stigma of the other.”
After the seeds are harvested and germinated, the plants are observed over three to five years. Digby says the suitable ones are then sent for commercial production.
“Boorloo Moon is the result of a cross done in 2012, so it has taken 10 years for it to reach the market,” says Digby.
How to care for Boorloo Moon grevillea
Like most native plants, the Boorloo Moon is easy to care for if it’s grown in the right conditions.
“It is a resilient plant that will ensure your garden looks spectacular in the face of a warming and drying climate,” says Digby.
Aspect
Boorloo Moon should be grown in full sun.
Soil
This plant requires well-draining soil.
Fertiliser
Apply a native slow-release fertiliser every 6 – 12 months.
Pests
Boorloo Moon has a great resistance to pests and diseases.
Pruning
It can be lightly pruned annually to maintain a dense and compact habit.
Water
The good news is that Boorloo Moon supports water-wise gardening and conservation efforts with reduced watering requirements.
Where to buy Boorloo Moon
Boorloo Moon is currently available in nurseries across Australia. Previously, when Boorloo Moon first came to market in 2023, it was only available in select areas of Western Australia.
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