This small to large shrub has an erect multiple branches from the base that form an open bushy habit. It has stiff leathery glossy dark green oblong leaves and the red tube-shaped flowers appear in a large domed terminal cluster during spring.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Telopea speciosissimais naturally found in Australia growing on the east coast of New South Wales and extending to the mountains in open forests.

It prefers a well-drained, organic rich moist soil that is tending acidic in a semi shaded position but will tolerate full sun and is drought and frost tolerant.

Waratah is grown for its flowers and its shrubby habit. It is planted in parks and gardens as a specimen or in shaded shrub borders for screening. It is suitable as an understory plant and the flowers are the floral emblem of New South Wales.It is also used as a cut flower and establishes in 2 to 3 years and is suitable for coastal regions or the adjoining tablelands. ID 313

Telopea (tay-LÔ-pee-a) speciosissima(spe-kee-ô-SI-si-ma)

"Telopea", from Greek telopos, "seen from afar" - referring to the easily-seen large red flowers; "speciosissima", Latin, "showy" - again, referring to the spectacular flowers.

Proteaceae (pro-tee-AY-see-ee)
Protea Family