| Botanic name | Hakea salicifolia |
| Other names | Willow-leaved Hakea |
| Main Origin | Eastern Australia |
| Mature size | 2 – 5 m x 3 – 5 m (w x h) |
| Mature form | Upright shrub or small tree |
| Foliage | Narrow, spear-shaped, pale to mid-green |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Position | Full sun, part shade |
| Soil | Thrives on most well-drained soils |
| Water | Minimal, deep watering during extended dry spells |
| Climate | Subtropical, Temperate, Meditarranean |
| Flower | Cream-white from late winter to spring |
| Use | Screening, hedges, accent plant, mixed shrubbery |
| Notes | Suitable for coastal sites |
IN THIS ARTICLE
Origin and distribution
Hakea salicifolia, commonly known as the Willow-leaved Hakea, is a versatile, fast-growing shrub or small tree, renowned for its graceful, willow-like foliage and profuse flowering. This species is very popular amongst gardeners and landscapers seeking both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
Endemic in coastal and nearby regions of eastern Australia, Willow-leaved Hakea is often found in wet or dry forests, swamps and tablelands. It has also naturalised in cooler parts of southeastern Australia and has caused some environmental concerns, especially in southern Victoria.
Features
Hakea salicifolia typically reaches 3 to 5 meters in height, featuring attractive slender, spear-shaped leaves that are pale to mid-green, sometimes exhibiting a bluish-green hue.
In the growing season, new growth emerges with eye-catching pinkish-red, purple or bronze leaves. These leaves contrast beautifully with the existing green foliage, adding great visual appeal to the plant.
The distinct, graceful foliage is also unique compared to other Hakea species, such as Hakea laurina.
The greatest attribute of Hakea salicifolia is its exceptional compactness. Without particular intervention, it often develops as an attractive, rounded bush, ideal as a garden feature.
Hakea salicifolia responds well to pruning. Regular light pruning can further enhance its density and lush appearance. It is a prime candidate as a hedging plant, as it can be easily trimmed and shaped into a proper dimension.
If you intend to develop the plant into a tree, identify the central leader while the plant is younger. Prune away lower branches to achieve a focused, vertical development. As a tree, it forms a well-defined, brown and fibrous trunk and a more open, rounded canopy.
As the tree ages, its arched branches extend further with drooping foliage, creating a superb willow-like appearance.
The flowers of Hakea Salicifolia are small, cream-white, with a subtle fragrance. They emerge as tight clusters along branches, attracting birds and bees. Each floral cluster resembles a cute, curly bouquet, adding seasonal interest to the plant.
Seed pods follow the blossom. They are woody, warty, egg-shaped capsules containing two winged seeds.
Growth and care
Hakea salicifolia thrives in subtropical, cool or warm temperate, and Mediterranean climates. While it is drought-hardy and tolerates moderate frost, it is rarely found in regions with prolonged temperature and humidity extremes.
In its natural habitat, Hakea salicifolia grows on sandstone and shale soils. It can thrive in virtually any soil type and even handle heavy clay, so long as they have good drainage with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
While the plant grows in poor soil, adding organic matter such as aged compost can provide a nutritional boost, enhancing healthy, lush growth.
Hakea salicifolia also benefits from a light application of the balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage robust foliage and flower development. The fertiliser must be low in phosphorus (< 3%), as Hakea salicifolia is highly sensitive to phosphorus.
Hakea salicifolia thrives in full sun or part shade. The mature plant requires only occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Regular watering should be applied while the plant is in the establishing phase.
Light pruning after flowering can rejuvenate foliage, making the plant appear lusher. To achieve this, remove about 10 – 20 cm from the end of a branch. While a straggly plant can tolerate hard pruning, cutting into thick, leafless branches may hinder rather than assist regrowth.
Landscape uses
- Hedge and screening: Due to its dense foliage, fast growth and excellent response to pruning, it is ideal for establishing privacy barriers and property borders. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round coverage.
- Feature specimen: Hakea salicifolia is a great feature as a shrub or tree. Its graceful form, slender willow-like leaves, colourful new growth, and profusion of creamy-white, honey-scented flowers during winter and spring add aesthetic appeal to any garden.
- Mixed shrubbery: Its dense, bushy habit and fine, narrow leaves provide a lush backdrop, complementing the textures and forms of other plants.
- Local wildlife: The flowers attract birds and pollinators, while the dense branches and foliage provide shelter and habitat for small animals, enhancing garden biodiversity.
FAQs
What kind of soil does Hakea salicifolia like?
Hakea solicifolia can thrive in a range of well-drained soil types, slightly acidic or neutral. Adding organic matter to nutrient-poor soil can kickstart the young plant’s growth.
For the heavier clay soil, amend it with a large amount of aged compost and some coarse grit to enhance the soil drainage and overall quality.
Regular mulching and light applications of a balanced, low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season can aid in maintaining soil quality and plant vigour.
How long does Hakea salicifolia live?
The lifespan of Hakea salicifolia varies depending on environmental conditions and care. Generally, this species has an average lifespan of 10 to 20 years.
What is Hakea salicifolia hedge spacing?
When planting Hakea salicifolia as a hedge, ensure proper spacing to achieve dense, healthy growth. Recommendations for spacing vary slightly among sources but generally are within the range of 1 to 2 meters between plants.
