Woolly Bush
Adenanthos sericeus
Silver Streak
About this plant
Adenanthos sericeus, commonly known as Woolly Bush, is a shrub native to southwestern Australia. It is admired for its soft, silvery-grey, needle-like leaves that give it a unique, fluffy appearance. The plant produces small red or pink flowers that attract birds and pollinators. It is often used in gardens for its ornamental foliage and as a windbreak or privacy screen.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Adenanthos
- Family
- Proteaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Proteales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southwestern Australia
- Distribution
- Native to southwestern Australia; cultivated in gardens worldwide in suitable climates.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this plant prefers lean soils.
Adenanthos sericeus is a hardy shrub that prefers sunny spots and well-drained soil. It tolerates dry conditions well but does not like waterlogged roots. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Soft, silvery-grey foliage with small red or pink flowers; attractive texture and color contrast in gardens.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Adenanthos sericeus may cause mild skin irritation in some people due to contact with its leaves. It does not produce significant airborne pollen, so it is unlikely to cause hay fever. To reduce any risk, wear gloves when handling or pruning the plant.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot. Poor drainage or heavy shade may lead to weak growth. Occasionally, pests like aphids can appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used as an ornamental shrub for its attractive foliage and flowers. Suitable for landscaping, windbreaks, and garden borders.
Notes
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot young plants annually if grown in containers. Sensitive to frost and prolonged wet conditions.