How to Grow Grevillea Scarlet Sprite - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Grevillea scarlet sprite is a plant that is native to Australia. It is a member of the Proteaceae family and is closely related to the other Australian plants in this family such as banksias, waratahs and dryandras. The scarlet sprite is a shrub that typically grows to a height of between two and four meters. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and are arranged in whorls of three or four. The flowers of the plant are red in color and are borne in clusters of up to 20. The scarlet sprite is often used in landscaping and gardening in Australia due to its attractive flowers and foliage.

Alternative name

0 grevillea olivacea
0 grevillea acanthifolia
0 grevillea banksii
0 grevillea baueri
0 grevillea caleyi

Common Knowledge

Grevillea scarlet sprite is a compact, low-growing shrub that is perfect for rockeries, borders and pots.
It has attractive, deeply lobed foliage that is bright green in colour.
The stunning, deep crimson flowers appear in spring and summer and are borne in clusters.
Grevillea scarlet sprite is a hardy plant that is tolerant of poor soils and drought conditions.
It is a low-maintenance plant that requires little pruning.
Grevillea scarlet sprite is attracting to nectar-loving birds.
This plant is native to Australia.
It is available for sale from nurseries and garden centres.
Grevillea scarlet sprite prefers a position in full sun or partial shade.
It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 60cm in height.

Related plant:
Grevillea Canberra Gem

Planting Process

For grevillea scarlet sprite, first step is to choose a sunny spot in your garden that has well-drained soil.
Then, scarlet sprite can be direct seeded or transplanted.
If you are direct seeding, then sow the seeds ½ inch deep in early spring.
If you are transplanting, then wait until all danger of frost has passed to plant your scarlet sprite.
Water the soil well and keep it moist until the seeds have germinated.
Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out so that they are spaced about 12 inches apart.
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Fertilize your scarlet sprite once a month with a general purpose fertilizer.
In late spring or early summer, you can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth.
Enjoy the red flowers that appear in summer!

Related plant:
Grevillea Winter Delight

The Soil

About soil condition, Grevillea Scarlet Sprite prefers well-drained soil in an open, sunny position. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best trimmed in late spring after flowering.

Light condition

Just like other Grevilleas, the Scarlet Sprite does best with full sun but will tolerate some light shade, especially during the hotter months of the year. It's a tough little plant that's drought tolerant once established.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the growth of Grevillea scarlet sprite is between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant is not tolerant to cold weather and should be protected from frost.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity gets too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and fall off. The plant will also start to produce less flowers. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to dry out and the plant will become less vigorous.

The Fertilizer

Regarding fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a low phosphorus fertilizer, such as 8-8-8. You can apply this fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be sure to water the plant well before and after applying the fertilizer. As for the roots, they are generally not very deep, so you don't need to worry about digging too deeply. Just be sure to loosen the soil around the plant so that the roots can spread out and the plant can get the nutrients it needs.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your grevillea healthy and looking its best. You should prune your plant every few months to remove any dead or dying leaves or branches. You can also prune to shape your plant or to encourage new growth. To prune your grevillea, first, remove any dead or dying leaves or branches. Then, cut back any branches that are longer than you want them to be. Finally, shape your plant by trimming any branches that are too long or that are growing in an undesirable direction.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is best done from cuttings taken from new growth. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should be approximately 10-15cm long. Use a sharp knife or secateurs to take a clean cutting just below a node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving 2-3 leaves at the top. Dip the cutting into a rooting hormone and plant into a well-drained propagating mix. Water well and place in a warm, protected position out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not wet and in 4-6 weeks the cutting should have rooted. Once rooted, pot into a well-drained potting mix and continue to grow on in a protected position.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate in the landscape is 1 to 2 feet per year. However, in optimum growing conditions, such as those found in Southern California, rates can approach 3 feet per year for a period of time. Once they are established, they will continue to grow and bloom for many years.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are that it is drought tolerant, and it can be difficult to find in stores. Also, the flowers may not be as vibrant as they are supposed to be. The leaves may also be droopy and the plant may not bloom as often as it should.

List to Know

Make sure to plant your Grevillea scarlet sprite in a location that receives full sun.
This plant prefers well-drained soil, so be sure to plant it in an area that does not retain water.
Water your plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
Fertilize your Grevillea scarlet sprite every few months with a general purpose fertilizer.
To encourage more blooms, deadhead spent flowers regularly.
Cut back the plant in early spring to encourage new growth.
This plant can be susceptible to aphids, so keep an eye out for these pests and treat accordingly.
Grevillea scarlet sprite is generally a low-maintenance plant, but occasional pruning may be necessary to shape it.
This plant is deer resistant, so you don't have to worry about them nibbling on your flowers.