Silky hakea

Silky hakea

Hakea sericea (Proteaceae)

Common Name:

Silky hakea

Scientific Name:

Hakea sericea (Proteaceae)


Alternative common names:

Syerige hakea (Afrikaans)

Description:

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 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 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 markings

Does the plant have any uses?

Cultivated as a garden ornament as well as hedging and dune reclamation

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