A robust, free-flowering waratah hybrid bearing large crimson flower heads in spring above leathery green foliage. More vigorous and adaptable than the wild species, and a stunning cut flower.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Shady Lady Waratah
Botanically, Telopea 'Shady Lady Red' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Proteaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Shady Lady Waratah
Shady Lady Waratah suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Shady Lady Waratah does best in free-draining, acidic and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Shady Lady Waratah does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser — the Proteaceae are especially phosphorus-sensitive. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Shady Lady Waratah after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Shady Lady Waratah in the garden
Shady Lady Waratah earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, a feature or specimen planting and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
Combine Shady Lady Waratah with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Shady Lady Waratah
Plant Sale lists Shady Lady Waratah as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
