GREVILLEA leucopteris - White Plumed Grevillea 5g

A spectacular grevillea with creamy white flowers occurring in long arching terminal heads 10 cm long appearing from mid-winter to mid-summer in its native range
Typically forms an erect stem with rusty-coloured bark and a spreading crown. Attractive grey-green divided leaves are 25 cm long.

Endemic to the southwest of Western Australia.

Prefers light soil in an open sunny position, drought and frost resistant.

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn in temperate climates, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 18-22°C

Larger seeds of Grevellia species can be carefully nicked with a sharp knife to expose the embryo slightly prior to sowing, this can assist with the uptake of moisture and can speed germination.

1. Soak seed overnight in warm water.
2. Sow seed on a porous seed raising mix and cover lightly. Do not bury the seed deeply.
3. Place in a warm shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid dying out.
4. The growing medium should be well-draining but should remain damp between watering. Keep moist but not too wet as the seed may rot. Do not let the growing mix completely dry out. 
5. Germination should occur in 21-60 days depending on the temperature and conditions. 

Pre-treatment of smoke: Not considered critical for this species but may be beneficial.
Many members of the Proteaceae are responsive to pre-treatment of smoke. Although germination will often occur without smoke treatment it has proved to be beneficial in reducing the number of days to germination and increasing germination rates in many species.
Smoke treatments are simple and can be undertaken either by soaking the seed overnight or by applying it to the surface after sowing, both provide good results. Smoke treatments are available by clicking here.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they have been discarded.