Rock hakea

Rock hakea

Hakea gibbosa (Proteaceae)

Common Name:

Rock hakea

Scientific Name:

Hakea gibbosa (Proteaceae)


Alternative common names:

Harige hakea; harige speldebos (Afrikaans)

Description:

A prickly and hairy shrub or tree up to 4m high with numerous branches starting from the base. Young twigs and branches very hairy. Greyish-green, needle-shaped leaves which start off densely hairy becoming smooth. Deep cream, small flowers from June to September. Grey woody fruit capsules with a rough surface.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Australia

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

Existing legislation: CARA 2002 - Category 1 NEMBA - Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Western Cape and Eastern Cape

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal

Why 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 mountains

What does it look like?

General description: A prickly and hairy shrub or tree up to 4m high and many branched.
Leaves: Greyish-green, needle-shaped leaves.
Flowers: Deep cream, small flowers from June to September.
Fruit/seeds: Grey woody fruit capsules with a rough surface.

Does the plant have any uses?

Shelter, dune reclamation, ornament

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