Hakea prostrata
harsh hakea
Overview
Hakea prostrata is a stiff, spreading evergreen shrub 3-13 feet (1-4 m) tall and wide, and despite the species name it is more often erect than prostrate. The rigid leaves are variable, from flat and holly-like with sharp marginal teeth to narrow and needle-like, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long and sharply pointed, giving rise to the name harsh hakea. Clusters of small cream to white flowers form in the leaf axils through winter and spring, sweetly scented and rich in nectar. The flowers are followed by hard, woody seed follicles about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long with a beaked tip, which stay closed on the plant and release two winged seeds after fire. The shrub grows on sandy and lateritic soils in southwestern Western Australia and is adapted to nutrient-poor ground through cluster roots that mine phosphorus. It tolerates drought, wind, and salt-laden coastal air. The sharp foliage makes the dense bush useful as a barrier but awkward to handle.
Native Range
Hakea prostrata is native to southwestern Western Australia. It grows in heath, shrubland, and open woodland on sandy, gravelly, and lateritic soils, including coastal and near-coastal sites.Suggested Uses
Used as a prickly barrier or screening shrub, a windbreak on exposed sandy sites, and a nectar plant in native gardens. The dense thorny habit shelters and protects small birds. Suited to coastal and water-wise plantings on free-draining soils.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 13'
Width/Spread3' - 13'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
cream to whiteFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight