Verticordia Grandis
Verticordia grandis J.Drumm.
Verticordia grandis, the scarlet featherflower, is one of the most spectacular of all Australian native shrubs, bearing large, vivid scarlet fringed flowers with a feathery, intricate texture. Endemic to south-west Western Australia, it has captivated botanists and gardeners alike for over 170 years.
Myrtaceae
Spring and early summer (September to December)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: scarlet indian paintbrushs and calothamnus quadrifiduss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Verticordia grandis carries remarkable historical significance as one of the most admired wildflowers ever collected in Australia. When Scottish botanist James Drummond encountered it on his final expedition to Champion Bay in 1849-1850, he was so captivated by its appearance that he filled his specimen bags with flowers and described it as "the most beautiful of Australian plants." He even fashioned a bed from surplus specimens, an extraordinary act recorded in the memoirs of Dr William Harvey. The genus name Verticordia comes from the Latin meaning "turns the heart," reflecting the legendary power of these flowers to move people emotionally. This was one of the epithets of Venus in Roman mythology. Verticordia grandis holds the additional distinction of being the first species of the entire family Myrtaceae to have been successfully genetically modified, in a 1993 research program aimed at developing commercial micropropagation for the floristry industry, highlighting its scientific as well as cultural significance.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Drought-tolerant once established; suited to Mediterranean conditions with dry summers; excellent drainage is essential; does not tolerate humidity
Soil
Sandy, Well-drained, Low nutrient, Yellow, grey, or white sand
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in very well-drained, sandy, low-nutrient soil in an open, sunny position with good airflow
Grafted forms onto rootstock of related species (such as Darwinia citriodora) are more adaptable and recommended in areas with higher humidity
Avoid humid conditions; the plant is not reliably successful in climates east of the Great Dividing Range or in subtropical regions
Propagate from seed, though germination can be erratic and slow, sometimes taking over a year; cuttings of hardened current season growth can also be taken
Avoid any fertilisers and do not mulch in a way that increases soil moisture around the root zone
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushier habit and more flowering stems
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Fresh cut flower in floral arrangements (vase life up to 10 days)
- Dried flower arrangements (dried specimens are less brittle and long-lasting)
- Feature shrub in native and Mediterranean-style gardens
- Wildlife garden plantings to attract honeyeaters and other nectar-feeding birds
- Historically a popular wildflower collection species; now supplied commercially by professional growers
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Verticordia Grandis
What does verticordia grandis mean?
The genus name Verticordia comes from the Latin meaning "turns the heart" and was an epithet of Venus in Roman mythology, reflecting the flower's extraordinary beauty. The species name grandis means "large" in Latin, referring to the plant's large flowers, leaves, and height compared to other Verticordia species.
Is verticordia grandis hard to grow?
Yes, it can be challenging, particularly in humid or high-rainfall climates. It is best suited to Mediterranean-style conditions with dry summers, low humidity, and very well-drained sandy soil. Grafted plants are more adaptable and are recommended for garden cultivation outside its native range.
What is verticordia grandis commonly known as?
It is most commonly known as the Scarlet Featherflower, a name that perfectly captures its vivid scarlet colour and the feathery, fringed texture of its petals and sepals. It is also called simply Featherflower.
How long do verticordia grandis cut flowers last?
Fresh-cut flowers last up to about 10 days in water. Dried specimens of freshly opened flowers are less brittle and can be kept for much longer in ornamental arrangements. The plant is considered an important species in both the fresh and dried cut flower industries.
What birds does verticordia grandis attract?
Its abundant nectar attracts several honeyeater species in its native Western Australia, including the Singing Honeyeater, the Little Brown Honeyeater, the New Holland Honeyeater, and the Western Spinebill, which also assist with pollination.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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