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Silk Oak
Scientific Name: Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. ex R. Br.
Family: Proteaceae

Show Larger Picture A Silk Oak blooming in March

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 8,9, 12-24 USDA: 9b to 11 Frost Tolerance: Young trees might need some protection on frosty nights (less than 24°F, -3°C) Sun Exposure: Full sun, young trees tolerate light shade. Origin: Coastal eastern Australia Growth Habits: Fast growing evergreen tree, to 60 to 100 feet tall (18-30 m); Dark green delicately dented two-pinnatifid leaves reminding of fern, 6 to 12 inches long (15-30 cm), greyish white or rusty undersides Watering Needs: Occasional water, fairly drought resistant Propagation: Seeds in late winter to early spring

Cultural Practices:
Feed well. It is an excellent, fast growing tree for Phoenix, and the low deserts. The branches break easily during storms, so it might be better not to plant it too close to the house.

Blooming Habits:
Golden-orange bottlebrush-like flowers, 3.2 to 6 inches long (8-15 cm), in the spring, on a 0.8 to 1.2 inches long stalk (2-3 cm).

Fruiting Habits:
Dark brown leathery dehiscent follicles, about 0.8 inch long (2 cm), with one or two flat, winged seeds