Prickly Hakea

(Hakea amplexicaulis)

Prickly Hakea (Hakea amplexicaulis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hakea amplexicaulis, commonly known as Prickly Hakea, is an evergreen shrub native to the kwongan heathlands and dry sclerophyll forests of Southwestern Australia. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 ft) and has an upright, straggly form with smaller smooth branches. The plant is notable for its stem-clasping, sharply serrated leaves and a lignotuber, which allows it to resprout after fire. Prickly Hakea produces a profusion of sweetly scented flowers that can be white, cream, red, or yellow, blooming from late winter to spring. The flowers are particularly showy and attract a variety of wildlife, including birds and insects.

Prickly Hakea is valued for its ornamental appearance, wildlife habitat enhancement, and moderate frost hardiness. It is used in gardens for its unique foliage and colorful, fragrant flowers. This shrub is suitable for low-water landscapes and can be used as a feature plant or in shrub borders. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers soils with good drainage. While it is drought-tolerant, occasional watering during prolonged dry periods can benefit the plant. Prickly Hakea is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-10 feet
  • Width: 2-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Cream, Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Kwongan heathlands and dry sclerophyll forests

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Hakea amplexicaulis, Hakea amplexicaulis var. angustifolia, Hakea amplexicaulis var. latifolia, Hakea triformis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Hakea amplexicaulis R.Br.