Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Proteaceae family of plants. Native to Australia, this stunning variety was introduced by Kings Park Botanic Garden in Western Australia and made available through Ball Horticulture under the protected plant name Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ PP 27,875.
This cultivar typically reaches a height of around 6 feet or 1.8 meters, forming an attractive and compact shrub. The foliage of Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ is characterized by its grayish-green color and finely dissected leaves, adding texture and visual interest to the plant. The buds of this cultivar are initially whitish and gradually open to reveal striking recurved flowers in a vibrant shade of red. As the flowers straighten, their color transitions to a captivating orangish-red hue, creating a captivating display of fiery tones.
One notable characteristic of Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ is its parentage, which includes a coastal species. This makes it well-suited for planting near coastal areas, where it can thrive in the salt-laden air and withstand the challenging conditions found in such environments.
Cultivation Guidelines for Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’:
To successfully cultivate Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ and enjoy its captivating beauty, consider the following guidelines:
Light Requirements: Provide Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ with a location that receives full sun exposure. This plant thrives in bright sunlight, allowing it to produce an abundance of vibrant flowers and maintain its compact growth habit.
Soil Type: Plant Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ in well-drained soil that is rich and moist. While it appreciates moisture, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Avoid using fertilizers that contain phosphorus or acidifying agents, as this cultivar does not prefer acidic soil conditions.
Hardiness: Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ is generally hardy to temperatures down to 25°F or -4°C. It can withstand mild frosts, making it suitable for a range of climates. However, it is always advisable to provide protection during extreme cold spells to ensure optimal growth and flowering.
Flowering: Depending on the climate, Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ has the potential to produce flowers throughout the year, adding a vibrant touch to your garden or landscape. Regular pruning or deadheading spent flowers can help promote continuous blooming.
Versatility: Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ can be planted in both garden beds and containers, allowing you to incorporate its beauty into various settings. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice, and it can even be used as a striking focal point or an attractive hedge.
Wildlife Attraction and Drought Tolerance: The bright and nectar-rich flowers of Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, adding to the biodiversity and charm of your outdoor space. Additionally, this cultivar exhibits excellent drought tolerance once established, making it a suitable choice for water-wise or xeriscape gardens.
In conclusion, Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ is a stunning evergreen shrub native to Australia, renowned for its compact growth habit, grayish-green dissected foliage, and striking orangish-red flowers. With its adaptability to coastal conditions, it adds a touch of vibrant beauty to gardens near the coast. By providing ample sunlight, well-drained soil, and avoiding acidic fertilizers, you can successfully cultivate Grevillea ‘Kings Fire’ and enjoy its captivating presence year-round.
Also, read about Grevillea banksii or Grevillea ‘Moonlight’ or Grevillea rosmarinifolia
