‘Poorinda Royal Mantle’ is a ground cover grevillea which is often grafted onto silky oak (Grevillea robusta) understock to form a weeping standard. Don came across a mature grafted specimen that looked like Cousin It from the television show, ‘The Adam’s Family’.
‘Poorinda Royal Mantle’ was produced by Mr. Leo Hodge of Ellaswood, Victoria, and is said to be a hybrid between G. laurifolia and G. willisii. It is an excellent, large-scale ground cover. It grows to about 0.25m (9″) tall and spreads to around 6m (20′) wide. Red toothbrush-like flowers appear throughout the year, with the main flowering flush in late winter and spring. The new growth is red with pink stems. This grevillea will grow in most areas of Australia, except for the tropics.
ground cover weeping standard bird attracting plant
This is a vigorous, hardy grevillea. It grows best in a full sun position in a light, well-drained soil.
Grevillea ‘Poorinda Royal Mantle’ is readily available at nurseries. Grafted specimens are available at large garden centres or specialist native nurseries.