Hello! It's wonderful that you wish to bring one of us into your home. We Grevilleas are a diverse and vibrant group, often known for our spectacular, spider-like flowers. While we naturally thrive under the open Australian skies, we can adapt to life indoors with the right care. To help us flourish, please consider our needs from our perspective.
First and foremost, we are sun-worshippers. In our native habitat, we bask in full, bright light for most of the day. To be happy and healthy indoors, we require the sunniest spot you can provide. A south-facing window (or north-facing if you are in the Southern Hemisphere) is ideal. We need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Without it, we become leggy as we stretch pathetically towards any light source, and we will likely refuse to produce our beautiful flowers. If your home lacks such a bright location, please consider a strong grow light to supplement our diet of photons.
Our roots are particularly sensitive to excess moisture. "Wet feet" is a death sentence for us. We absolutely demand a potting mix that drains exceptionally well. A standard cactus or succulent mix is a good start, but we would be even happier if you amended it with some extra perlite or coarse sand to ensure water flows through quickly. The pot you choose must have excellent drainage holes. Never, ever let us sit in a saucer of water; always empty it shortly after watering.
Please do not love us to death with water. We are drought-tolerant plants and prefer a cycle of thorough watering followed by a period of drought. The best method is to check the soil about an inch down. If it feels completely dry, it is time to give us a deep, thorough drink until water runs freely from the drainage holes. Then, leave us alone until the soil is dry again. In the cooler winter months, when our growth slows, we will need even less water. Overwatering will cause our roots to rot, and we will quickly decline.
Unlike many tropical houseplants, we do not require high humidity. Average household humidity is perfectly acceptable. In fact, overly humid and stagnant air can make us susceptible to fungal diseases. We appreciate good air circulation. As for temperature, we enjoy the same comfort you do—average room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C). Please protect us from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, as we are not frost-tolerant.
We are adapted to grow in relatively low-phosphorus soils. Therefore, please feed us sparingly and use a fertilizer labeled for native plants or one that is low in phosphorus. A light feeding in the early spring as we begin our active growth period is sufficient. You can also give us a gentle pruning after a flush of flowers to maintain a compact shape and encourage bushier growth. Simply snip off the spent flower heads and any unruly stems.
