Australian silky oak

Australian silky oak

Grevillea robusta (Proteaceae)

Common Name:

Australian silky oak

Scientific Name:

Grevillea robusta (Proteaceae)


Alternative common names:

Silver oak; he-oka (English); Australiese silwereik

Description:

A large, evergreen tree 18-30m high with a straight trunk and moderately spreading crown. Leaves are dark green above and greyish-white or rusty-silk beneath and have a fern-like profile. Golden-orange flowers in terminal, bottle-brush-like sprays from September to November. Brownish-black, leathery fruits contain up to two winged seeds

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Australia

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

CARA 2002 - Category 1 NEMBA - Category 3

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga

How does it spread?

Spread by seed dispersal

Why is it a problem?

It competes with and has the potential to replace indigenous species

What does it look like?

General description: A large evergreen tree growing 18-30m in height with fern-like leaves.
Leaves: Leaves are fern-like and dark green above and greyish-white or rusty-silk beneath.
Flowers: Golden-orange flowers in terminal, bottle-brush-like sprays from September to November.
Fruit/seeds: Brownish-black, leathery fruits containing up to two flat-winged seeds

Does the plant have any uses?

Ornament, shade, timber and shelter

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