Torch bearer

With their beacon-like blooms sitting atop dark green leaves, nectar-rich waratahs are a magnet for the birds that pollinate them. They can also be the star of your spring garden show. Planted in a prominent position, they’ll take their role as feature plant seriously – especially when allowed to shine with other natives like bottlebrushes, grevilleas and hakeas. Border plants such as native and everlasting daisies (Brachyscome and Xerochrysum spp. respectively) and low-growing ground-covering shrubs such as prostrate grevilleas and tea-trees also make great companion plants.

There are five waratah species, all shrubs or small trees with attractive foliage to frame their stunning flowers:

• The NSW waratah (Telopea speciosissima), which produces the largest flower of all the species, grows naturally around Sydney; it’s also the magnificent floral emblem of New South Wales.
• The Braidwood waratah (T. mongaensis) occurs in the mountains east of Canberra.
• The Gippsland waratah (T. oreades) originates in north-east Victoria.
• The Tasmanian waratah (T. truncata) occurs throughout the south-western part of that state, in wet sclerophyll forests and subalpine bush.
• The little-known Gibraltar Range waratah (T. aspera) from north-east NSW. Unlike all of the above species, this one is not yet established in cultivation.

There are also various hybrid varieties available that combine the best traits of the above species.

In the October issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine, Angus Stewart reveals his top cultivars and shares expert tips on growing them, including key pests and diseases to watch for. Grab your copy today!