1 named cultivar

‘Molonglo’Molonglo Juniper-Leaf Grevillea

shrub

Juniper Grevillea

The Story

Plant Bio

Grevillea juniperina, the juniper grevillea, is an evergreen Australian shrub with a dense, spreading habit and stiff, needle-like leaves that terminate in sharp, prickly points. The distinctive spider-like flower clusters lack true petals, displaying prominent, colorful styles in shades of red, orange, or yellow from winter through spring.

This species is highly sensitive to phosphorus, requiring specialized low-phosphorus fertilizers to prevent toxic nutrient buildup in the roots. The rigid, pungent foliage acts as a natural deterrent against browsing deer and rabbits while providing protective nesting cover for small birds.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structural interest with its dense, needle-like foliage and unique spider-like red flowers.

Acts as an effective low hedge or barrier planting that naturally deters browsing deer and rabbits.

Serves as an excellent nectar source for hummingbirds and beneficial insects, while the prickly foliage offers safe nesting sites.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60"

Width

96"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Moderate

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Skin irritant

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with exceptional drainage, such as a raised bed, sandy slope, or gritty container mix.
Position the plant in full sun to maximize flowering and maintain a tight, compact growth habit.
Water sparingly once established, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions.
Apply only specialized low-phosphorus native fertilizers, as standard garden fertilizers will cause phosphorus toxicity.

Pro Tip

Tip-prune the stems immediately after the main spring flowering to maintain a dense habit; cutting back hard into old, leafless wood will kill the branches.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide excellent soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Use low-phosphorus fertilizers formulated specifically for Proteaceae.
Tip-prune regularly after flowering to encourage dense growth.

Don't

Do not overwater or allow the roots to sit in soggy, waterlogged soil.
Do not prune hard into old, bare wood as it will not regenerate.
Do not use standard all-purpose fertilizers containing high phosphorus.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Rock gardensHedges and barriersSlopes and banksContainer specimen

Companion Plants

Banksia spinulosa Anigozanthos flavidus Westringia fruticosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Juniper Grevillea questions

What zones can Juniper Grevillea grow in?

Juniper Grevillea is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Juniper Grevillea deer resistant?

Yes — Juniper Grevillea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Juniper Grevillea bloom?

Juniper Grevillea typically blooms in winter through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Juniper Grevillea need full sun?

Juniper Grevillea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Juniper Grevillea drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Juniper Grevillea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.