Grevillea robusta
Grevillea robusta A.Cunn. ex R.Br.
Silky Oak is a spectacular Australian native tree with fern-like foliage and brilliant golden-orange flowers that drip nectar. Despite its common name, it is unrelated to true oaks and belongs to the ancient Proteaceae family.
Proteaceae (Protea family)
Late spring to summer (September-November in Southern Hemisphere, April-June in Northern Hemisphere)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: hakea laurinas and persimmon blossoms also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Silky Oak holds deep significance for Aboriginal Australians who traditionally consumed the copious sweet nectar directly from flowers or mixed with water to make an original sweet drink. The tree literally drips nectar, providing crucial food for native birds, bees, and insects. The name "robusta" refers to the timber's strength (strong like oak), while "silky" describes the wood's texture and sheen. Grevilleas have an ancestry older than dinosaurs, representing ancient Gondwanan flora. The valuable timber, once marketed as "lacewood," was widely used in colonial furniture and is still grown in plantations worldwide. In India, it is an important honey tree and shade plant for tea. The tree symbolizes the adaptation of Australian natives to cultivation while maintaining their ecological importance.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours) for best flowering
Water
Moderate water needs, excellent drought tolerance once established
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Acidic preferred, Tolerates poor soil (pH 5.5-6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Fast-growing when young
Requires ample space due to large mature size
Plant away from buildings due to size and brittle wood
Proteoid roots allow growth in nutrient-poor soils
Hardy in zones 9-11, protect from frost below 16 degrees F
Can be messy with sporadic leaf drop
Tops may snap in high winds as tree ages
Wear gloves when handling to avoid contact dermatitis
Does not flower well in lowland tropics
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen tree for large landscapes
- Street tree and avenue plantings
- Shade tree in parks
- Windbreaks
- Young plants as houseplants for foliage
- Rootstock for grafting difficult Grevillea species
Traditional Uses
- Contains compounds that cause contact dermatitis (not for internal use)
- Nectar historically consumed by Aboriginal Australians
- Wood contains allergens that affect some people
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Grevillea robusta
Is silky oak a true oak?
No, despite its common name, Silky Oak is not related to true oaks (Quercus). It belongs to the Proteaceae family. The name comes from the timber's oak-like appearance and strength.
Is Grevillea robusta toxic?
The plant contains tridecyl resorcinol which causes contact dermatitis in many people, similar to poison ivy. Some species also contain hydrogen cyanide. Wear protective gear when handling. The nectar is traditionally consumed but care is needed.
How fast does silky oak grow?
Silky Oak is fast-growing, especially when young. It can add several feet per year in favorable conditions and may reach significant size within 10-15 years.
Why do silky oaks drip nectar?
Silky Oak flowers produce copious nectar to attract bird and insect pollinators. The nectar is so abundant it literally drips from the flowers, delighting native birds, bees, and historically, Aboriginal people.
What is silky oak wood used for?
Silky Oak timber (marketed as lacewood) is prized for furniture, veneer, window frames, and construction. It has a silky texture, attractive figure, and is resistant to wood rot.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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