The Hakea is endemic to Australia with the greatest number of its 150 odd species occurring in Western Australia. The genus is part of the protea family (Proteaceae) and arguably the most hardy of the family. Although closely related to the Grevilleas, the fruits of the hakea continue to thicken after ripening. There is wide variation in leaf and flower shape and arrangement.
Hakea cinerea (Grey or Ashy Hakea) is a Western Australian native which is common on heath sands. It may be upright or rounded and grows to 2 metres with a similar spread. It is a decorative plant with stiff, blue-green, pointed foliage and clusters of yellowish-green flowers mainly from August to October. It is quite adaptable but prefers good drainage. It will tolerate most conditions.
Hakea nodosa is also known as the Yellow Hakea. It is dense, arching shrub common in Victoria, Tasmania and south-eastern South Australia. It has narrow, pine-like leaves but with a soft texture. There is an abundance of small, fragrant yellow flowers mainly from February to May. This species will tolerate poorly drained soils and is frost-tolerant.
The Pincushion hakea (Hakea laurina) is also called the sea urchin and is an ornamental shrub or small tree. The leaves are long, arrow and leathery. The pincushion flowers are a mix of creamy white and bright crimson. The flowers are full of nectar and it is a favourite of the little honey possum. On the down side, it dislikes strong winds, poor drainage and excessive humidity. Light pruning of the young plant will help strengthen it.
Hakea salicifolia (Willow Hakea) is a bushy, quick-growing shrub to small tree. The long smooth leaves are flat and deep green, with new growth often showing a reddish tinge. Masses of small, white to cream, scented flowers appear in axillary clusters mainly from July to November. Plants can become open as they mature but pruning will promote dense growth. Once known as H.saligna, it is a good choice as a hedge, boundary or screening plant. It has a good tolerance to strong winds and will withstand dry periods.
Hakea suaveolens or Sweet-scented hakea has smooth leaves with narrow, prickly segments. White to cream flowers appear mainly from April to June. It can be used in a wide range of well-drained positions providing drainage is effective. It is useful as a screen or windbreak and is favoured as a nesting site by birds.
Hakea nitida or Shining Hakea has prickly green leaves. It produces profuse cream flower spikes mainly from September to November. It is usually somewhat open in habit but in exposed positions, it is more dense. It requires good drainage.
Most hakea species are frost tender. They prefer full sun and good drainage. The prickly varieties can be trimmed into an impenetrable hedge. Like many natives, they do not like high phosphorous fertilisers.
