Silky hakea
Hakea sericea
Silky hakea: Hakea sericea
Common name:
Silky hakeaScientific name:
Hakea sericea (Proteaceae)Alternative common names:
Syerige hakea (Afrikaans)
A very prickly shrub or tree up to 5m high with numerous branches starting at the base. Young twigs covered in short, fine hairs, older stems smooth. Dark green to grey-green, smooth, needle-shaped leaves. Cream, small flowers from June to September. Wooden fruit capsules which are purplish-brown with paler markings
Additional Info
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Where does this species come from?
AustraliaWhat is its invasive status in South Africa?
Existing legislation: CARA 2002 – Category 1 NEMBA – Category 1bWhere in South Africa is it a problem?
Western Cape and Eastern CapeHow does it spread?
Seed dispersalWhy is it a problem?
Competes with and replaces indigenous species. Dense stands are a fire hazard and threaten the survival of indigenous animal and plant species in the Cape fynbos. Dense stands in mountain catchments could also significantly reduce water runoff and stream flow and restrict access to the mountainsWhat does it look like?
General description: A prickly shrub or tree reaching a height of 5m with needle-like leaves. Leaves: Dark green to grey-green, smooth, needle-shaped leaves Flowers: Cream, small flowers from June to September. Fruit/seeds: Wooden fruit capsules which are purplish-brown with paler markingsDoes the plant have any uses?
Cultivated as a garden ornament as well as hedging and dune reclamationPlant me instead alternatives
Soap dogwood (Noltea africana)