For gardeners in deer-prone areas, the quest for beautiful yet resilient plants is constant. The question of whether Grevilleas are a suitable choice is an excellent one, as the answer is not a simple yes or no. From a botanical and horticultural perspective, Grevilleas possess several inherent characteristics that make them significantly more deer-resistant than many other garden plants, but they are not entirely immune under all conditions.
The most significant factor contributing to the deer resistance of Grevilleas is their foliage. Many popular Grevillea species, such as Grevillea 'Robyn Gordon', Grevillea rosmarinifolia, and Grevillea 'Long John', feature leaves that are tough, leathery, and often finely divided or needle-like. These physical textures are unpalatable and difficult for deer to chew and digest. Unlike the soft, succulent leaves of hostas or daylilies—which are deer candy—the tough, sclerophyllous leaves of Grevilleas offer a poor eating experience. Furthermore, the high fibre content and low moisture content in these leaves provide little nutritional reward for the energy a deer would expend to eat them.
Beyond physical texture, many Grevilleas deploy chemical defenses. While not as pungent to the human nose as plants like lavender or rosemary, some Grevilleas release subtle, slightly spicy or aromatic oils when their leaves are bruised or crushed. These volatile compounds can be off-putting to deer, whose sensitive sense of smell interprets them as a warning or an unpleasant taste. This is a common evolutionary trait in many plants native to Australia, where they evolved to deter marsupial browsers like kangaroos, a defense that often translates well against deer. It is important to note, however, that the potency of these aromatics varies between species and cultivars.
Grevilleas are renowned for their unique and prolific spider-like flowers, which are rich in nectar. While the plant itself is generally unappetizing, there have been anecdotal reports of deer sampling the sweet, energy-rich flowers, especially in times of extreme food scarcity. The flowers are a softer tissue compared to the leaves. However, this browsing is typically minor and non-destructive to the overall health of the plant. The deer is likely seeking a quick sugar source rather than attempting to consume the foliage or stems. Therefore, while the plant is considered deer-resistant, the flowers might occasionally be investigated.
It is crucial to understand that "deer-resistant" is not synonymous with "deer-proof." A hungry deer will eat almost anything. The level of resistance can also vary depending on the local deer population and the availability of other, more preferred food sources. Some Grevillea species with larger, softer leaves might be more susceptible than those with fine, needle-like foliage. When selecting Grevilleas for a deer-prone landscape, it is wise to choose varieties known for their tougher leaf structure. Landscaping tips that enhance their effectiveness include using them as part of a layered, diverse planting scheme. Interplanting Grevilleas with other highly deer-resistant plants like Cistus (Rockrose), Westringia (Coastal Rosemary), or Lavandula (Lavender) can create a sensory barrier that is generally unappealing to deer.
