Telopea speciosissima Red Embers - Waratah

Telopea 'Red Embers' forms an evergreen and bushy shrub, distinguished by its young brown stems. In May and June, even July, it is covered with round, large, and spectacular flowers. These cluster flowers are red with pink highlights. Hardy down to -8°C, this exotic and original plant thrives particularly in mild climates, in the sun, and in light and well-draining soil. It can be grown in a pot. Its cultivation can be delicate in too rich soil and in humid summer climates.

From the proteaceae family, Telopea plants are woody plants native to Australia. In Aboriginal, they are called Waratah. 'Red Embers' is an improved selection of Telopea speciosissima, the floral emblem of New South Wales in Australia. It forms a bushy shrub that can reach 2 m in all directions. Its long, narrow leaves are dark green and evergreen. Its young stems are brown. Its round inflorescences consist of about a hundred tubular flowers gathered in a ball and surrounded by bracts. They are excellent cut flowers.

An original and unusual plant, Telopea 'Red Embers' finds a place in mild regions or in coastal gardens spared by heavy frosts and precipitation. It dislikes humid climates. It prefers light soils that do not retain water, with an acidic tendency, poor in nitrates and phosphorus. It will find its place as a specimen plant, on a large slope, in a flower bed, or even in a large pot, in a sheltered and sunny location. Pair it with Cordyline 'Charlie Boy' with pink-edged foliage and a Leucadendron 'Sundance'. Add a Leptospermum 'Coral Candy' to complete your exotic flower bed.