Telopea Shady Lady Crimson - 14cm Pot

Shady Lady® Crimson is a spectacular hybrid Waratah, producing magnificent crimson-red flower heads that make a dramatic statement from late winter through to spring. A cross between Telopea speciosissima and Telopea oreades, this improved Australian native combines the iconic beauty of the Waratah with enhanced vigour, adaptability and reliable garden performance. Its bold flowers, glossy foliage and upright habit make it an outstanding feature plant for Melbourne and south-east Victorian gardens.

The large, velvety flower heads are held proudly above rich green foliage, creating an unforgettable display during the cooler months. Highly valued as a premium cut flower, the blooms are long-lasting both in the garden and in floral arrangements. Even when not in flower, the dense evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and makes an attractive backdrop for other native plants.

With its upright growth and striking flowers, Shady Lady® Crimson is ideal as a feature shrub, specimen planting or focal point in native and contemporary landscapes. It also combines beautifully with Proteas, Banksias and Leucadendrons in waterwise garden designs.

Mature size: approximately 3 metres high × 1.5 metres wide

Care & Growing Tips
Plant in a full sun to part shade position. In Melbourne, full sun encourages the best flowering, while light afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter inland gardens. Good air circulation is important for healthy growth.

Prefers free-draining, slightly acidic soil. Excellent drainage is essential, particularly in Melbourne's heavier clay soils. Improve drainage by planting into a raised garden bed or mound if necessary.

Water regularly and deeply during establishment, keeping the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Once established, plants are moderately drought tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry periods to maintain strong flowering.

Feed lightly in spring and autumn using a low-phosphorus fertiliser formulated for Australian native plants. Seaweed solutions or compost-based soil conditioners may also be used. Avoid high-phosphorus fertilisers and excessive feeding.

Apply a 5-8cm layer of pine bark, wood chips or leaf mulch to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature and suppress weeds, keeping mulch clear of the stem.

Prune immediately after flowering by removing spent flower stems to encourage dense growth, improved branching and strong flowering the following season.

Moderately frost tolerant once established and well suited to Melbourne's temperate climate, provided drainage is excellent.

Ideal for
– Feature planting
– Australian native gardens
– Woodland-style landscapes
– Premium cut flower gardens
– Contemporary landscapes
– Wildlife-friendly gardens
– Drought-tolerant gardens
– Statement garden specimens