Woody
Stems and branches with a woody texture commonly associated with shrubs or perennials.
Bun-shape
Having a rounded bun shape.This vigorous small shrub has upright stiff branching that forms an irregular rounded spiky habit. It has dark green needle-like leaves and the tube-shaped deep crimson flowers appear in a raceme from late winter to spring.
Grevillea rosmarinifolia is naturally found in south east Australia. It grows in a well drained moderately fertile sandy to light clay loam that is tending acidic with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers an open sunny position and is is frost, drought, pollution and saline soil tolerant.
The Rosemary Spider Flower is grown on for its bushy habit and small red flowers. It is planted in parks and gardens along borders for screening or as a barrier plant and can be trimmed to form an informal hedge. It establishes in 2 - 3 years and is moderately long lived. It is suitable for inland regions preferring low humidity and can be grown in containers. The cultivar 'Pink Pearl' is an all round better plant than G. rosmarinifolia and is commonly cultivated. Once established it has a low water requirement (Scale: 1-drop from 3), responding to mulch and an occasional deep watering during dry periods, particularly for young plants.
I.D. 162
UK hardiness zone H2
Climate zones 8, 9, 12 - 24
USDA Zone 8-10
Grevillea (gre-VIL-ee-a) rosmarinifolia (ROZ-mah-ree-nee-FOL-ee-ah)
'Grevillea': after Charles F. Greville, London president of the Royal Horticultural Society; 'rosmarinifolia': leaves like rosemary.
Cultivars
'Desert Flame'
This shrub produces orange to scarlet flowers during late autumn to winter. It is used in inland gardens, where humidity is lower.
'Jenkinsii'
This shrub has a slightly larger leaves and produces deep pink and white flowers.
'Lutea'
This shrub grows up to 2m (6 ft) tall and wide forming a bushy habit. From early winter to summer it produces creamy yellow flowers. It is planted along garden borders for screening or to attract birds and may be trimmed to form an informal hedge. It is suitable to cool temperate to warm temperate regions on the coast and in the lower mountains. This shrub prefers a well drained moderately fertile sandy-stony to loamy soil that is slightly acidic pH range from 6.0 to 7.0. It grows in a sunny to semi-shaded position and is frost-cold and drought tolerant..
'Pink Pixi'
This small shrub grows to 1 m (3 ft) tall and wide and produces light pink flowers that appear from winter to early spring.
'Pink Pearl'
This shrub grows to 3 m (10 ft) tall by 4 m (12 ft) wide and as larger leaves. It produces pink flowers during spring.
'Rosy Posy' ™
This small shrub grows to 1.5 m (5 ft) tall by 2 m (6 ft) wide forming a compact rounded habit with fine needlelike dark green leaves. It produces clusters of pendulous waxy pink flowers from winter to spring and sporadically during summer. It grows in a variety of habitats in cool temperate to subtropical regions, on the coast and in the lower mountains. It prefers a well drained moderately fertile sandy to loamy or light clay soil that is acidic to slightly alkaline with a pH range from 5.5 to 7.5. This shrub is planted along garden borders to attract birds or may be trimmed to form a hedge.
Grevillea Species
A majority of this genus is endemic to Australia with a larger proportion found in south-western Western Australia.
They consist of prostrate shrubs, shrubs and trees with a large range of foliage types and are usually bird attracting.
The inflorescences range from globular heads that may be elongated to toothbrush-like one sided raceme.
The individual flowers consist of a perianth tube that is made up of four segments that are fused except for one side. There are four stamens that are arranged at the tip of the perianth tube and a long hooked style.
Pollination mechanism
Ripe pollen is shed onto the unripe stigma where visitors pick it up. When the pollen is removed or it dries up the stigma becomes ripe and sticky ready for another visitor to deposit pollen, which will grow and induce fertilisation.
The fruit is a capsule (follicle) and is normally leathery splitting to release one or two winged seeds.
Propagation
Although the seeds are viable seedling stock can vary from the parent plant. Grevilleas are normally grown from semi-hardwood cuttings that produce sensitive roots. Care should be taken when potting up or planting out.
Plants derived from cuttings are busher than seedling stock.
Soils
Grevilleas will tolerate most soil types though they tend to prefer slightly acidic sandy or clay soil types that are well drained.
Aspect
Grevilleas will grow in full sun to shade positions though flower production will diminish in shade. They can tolerate dry periods and some tolerate frost, most of the genus is hardy and tolerate neglect.
Proteaceae (pro-tee-AY-see-ee)
Protea Family
Distribution
This family of dioecious or monoecious trees and shrubs that mainly appear in the southern hemisphere with some found in Central America and Africa. They are abundant in the southern part of Australia and normally grow on poor infertile soils that are tending acidic. Their habitats include shrubland, grassland, rainforests, alpine meadows and tropical lowlands
Diagnostic Features
The highly variable leaves are arranged alternate, opposite or whorled and are compound, dissected or lobed or pinnately toothed or simple. The margin is entire or pinnatisect and without stipules. The leaf shape can vary at different stages of growth, juvenile to adult.
The normally bisexual flowers are regular or irregular arranged in racemes or compound inflorescences (cone-like); some are solitary and appear in the leaf axils.
There are normally 4 perianth-segments that are free or united and are arranged in a single whorl, petaloid and valvate in bud joined when young and separating as the tube splits down one side.
The 4 stamens are all fertile and appear opposite the perianth segments and may be reduced to staminodes.
The filaments are partly or wholly attached to the tepals often sessile and the anthers are four chambered opening with longitudinal slits.
The ovary is superior and has one carpel that contains one chamber with one to many ovules.
The hooked style is simple and the stigma is small bulbous (capitate) or maybe bilobed.
The fruit are dehiscent or indehiscent follicle or drupe or achene with few or many winged seeds.
Note:
Some species are used for food, alcoholic drink, herbal remedies and extensively used in ornamental and domestic gardens for their fantastic flowers and foliage. There are 80 genera and 1,700 specie
This plant tolerates between USDA zones 8a to 10a and grows to 2.5 m (8 ft)
Fahrenheit 10º to 35º F
These temperatures represent the lowest average.
Celsius -9.5º to -1.1º C
Attention
All photographs and data are covered by copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, reference or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any means with out written permission. All inquiries should be addressed to plantfile.com attention Peter Kirkland.
Simple
The leaf that is not divided.
Linear
Margins are parallel and length is ten times its breadth.
Alternate
Leaves are arranged alternately along the stem.
Recurved - Revolute
A leaf margin that is curved or bending backwards with rolled edges.
Tubulate
A flower that forms a tube shape.
Raceme
An inflorescence forming along a central stem of indefinite length with flowers having there own stems.| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun |
| Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
The tubulate flowers have pink and cream to lemon-green or orange perianth segments with a red style that is looped then becoming straight. The flowers are arranged in an umbellate raceme that appears in the upper leaf axils during spring.
Follicle
A capsular fruit that splits open down one side only and normally contains one seeds. "The Rosemary Spider Flower is grown on for its bushy habit and small red flowers. It is planted in parks and gardens along borders for screening or as a barrier plant and can be trimmed to form an informal hedge. It establishes in 2 - 3 years and is moderately long lived. It is suitable for inland regions preferring low humidity and can be grown in containers. The cultivar 'Pink Pearl' is an all round better plant than G. rosmarinifolia and is commonly cultivated.
Note:
The foliage may cause skin irritations so care should be taken when pruning.
This plant is resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi.
Take semi hardwood cuttings from summer to winter.
Grevillea propagation
Sowing seeds
Generally Grevillea's release the seed from the follicle as soon as it is ripe, so timing is important for collecting. When collecting seeds you can place a tarp under the plant to catch the falling seeds or if the seeds have fallen you can collect the litter from under the plant and sieve out the seeds. If the seeds are still in the follicles you can bag the seed head and catch the seeds as they are dispersed.
Most seeds require pre-treatment before sowing in these treatments include;
Seeds may be sown on the surface and covered or to a depth of 30 mm (1 1/8 in) in a well drained, sandy media that is composed of 4 parts washed, sterilised river sand to 1 part sieved peat moss and water well with a soil fungicide. Place the pots in a warm protected environment on benches and ensured the soil is kept constantly moist, but not wet.
After the seeds germinated place them in a shaded, hardening off area for a few days before potting up. Take care when transplanting as the roots are sensitive and easily damaged.
Cuttings
Semi hardwood cuttings are preferred and should be taken while the plant is actively growing, during spring or autumn and choose only healthy plants. The cuttings should be quite flexible and taken from the upper and middle part of the plant; avoid lower branches as they may be infected from soil born fungi. Cutting should be taken in the morning and collected material should be placed in a moist, bag or container away from sunlight.
Prepare the cuttings in a cool shaded position after washing them in a week fungicide solution and cut them in to lengths up to 100 mm (4 in) long with a basal cut below a leaf node.
Remove any flower buds and fruit than reduce the foliage from the lower half of the cutting or reduce the size of large leaves by trimming. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder prior to placing in the pot.
The growing media should be very well drained with a coarse texture. Fine textured media produces thin poor quality roots that could rot. The media should have a pH of 6 - 7 and can be made up of 3 parts sterilised washed river sand to 1 part sieved peat moss. There are numerous mixtures of perlite and vermiculite that also worked quite well. It is advised not to place cuttings to close to each other as this encourages fungal attack and causes root damage when potting up occurs.
Once potted the cuttings are placed in a protected environment on benches under mist or in cold frame. Bottom heat will help stimulate root growth and the media should be watered with a soil fungicide regularly. Keep the media moist but not wet, and once the cuttings have rooted up place them in a shaded hardening off area for a few days before potting up.
Asexual Propagation (Cuttings general)
Propagation from cuttings is possible because every cell of a plant containers the genetic information to create an entire plant.
1. Reproduction occurs through the formation of adventitious roots and shoots.
2. The uniting of vegetative parts with budding and grafting.
3. Taking stem cuttings and layering is possible due to the development of adventitious roots
4. Root cuttings can form new shoots and it is possible to join roots and shoots to form a new plant.
5. A new plant may be formed from a single cell in an aseptic culture system, (cloning).
It is important to propagate vegetatively as this form of cloning retains the unique characteristics of the cultivars or where particular aspects of a plant may be lost if propagated by seed.
Equipment Required for Taking Cuttings
1. A sharp knife that is not too large or a razor mounted in a handle.
2. Good pair of sharp secateurs that is clean.
3. A dibbler to make a hole in the media and allow the cutting to be placed in.
4. Propagation structures that are either a timber frame with glass or polyethylene cover or a glasshouse.
The object of the structure is to create an environment where the temperature and humidity can be controlled. This can be achieved with a simple cover over a pot with a wire frame and plastic.
This stops the draughts and maintains humidity.
5. A hotbed is a useful item as many plants root more quickly if the media is slightly warmer.
Bottom heat is obtained from thermostatically controlled heating cables that are running under the media.
6. Misting systems are of great benefit to cuttings as the regulated fogging with water inhibits the cuttings from drying out and as a result the cuttings may be grown in full sun.
This results in faster root development and less subject to diseases by fungi and bacteria.
7. Rooting mediums
The rooting medium must be well drained, sand may be used as long as it is thoroughly washed and leached of all salts. It is very well drained and it is excellent for cutting that root up quickly. Equal parts of sand and peat moss have good results for cuttings, which are left for a period of time to allow the roots to form.
Vermiculite and perlite are also used as a well-drained rooting media but has the same disadvantage as sand having no nutrients. The cuttings must be potted up as soon as the roots developed, or a light application of liquid fertiliser can be applied.
Types of Cuttings
Stem cuttings
These are the main types of cuttings.
1. Softwood cuttings
These cuttings are taken from young growth on side shoots and tip growth.
2. Semi hardwood cuttings
These cuttings are taken from wood that is firmer and semi ripe usually during mid summer.
3. Hardwood cuttings
These cuttings are taken from mature wood normally towards the end of the season.
4. Root cuttings
Cut sections of roots to obtain new plants during late winter to early spring.
5. Leaf cuttings
Cut the leaf blade in order to obtain new plants during the growing period of the plant.
Cutting preparation
Hardwood cuttings
When taking hardwood cuttings remove the leaves and in semi hardwood reduce the number of leaves by half. Cut the wood straight across just below a node or joint. Hardwood cuttings are normally between 100 to 760 mm long and may have either a heel of the older wood attached to the base, or a short section of the older wood at the base. These cuttings are prepared during the dormant season from late autumn to early spring and are made up from previous season's growth.
This type of cutting is used for woody deciduous plants such as Crepe Myrtle, Rose rootstocks and some fruit trees.
The cuttings should be healthy wood with ample supply of stored food as to nourish developing roots and shoots and placed in the rooting media with the aid of a dibbler stick.
Softwood cuttings
The cuttings for softwood should be 60 to 130 mm long and be of material with enough substance as to not deteriorate before the new roots appear. Cut below a node and retain the leaves on the upper portion. Place in a well-drained media and maintain a high humidity.
Soaking the cuttings and leaving them standing in water for long periods is undesirable.
Herbaceous cuttings
These cuttings are taken from succulent plants such as Geraniums and Coleus. The cutting should be 70 to 130 mm long with leaves retained on the upper end. As in softwood cuttings these require an environment of high humidity. Some fleshy cuttings ooze sap and may require a drying period for a few hours before being placed in the rooting media.
Leaf cutting
In these cuttings a leaf blade and petiole or part off is used to raise a new plant. The original leaf doses not become a part of the new plant as roots and shoots appear from the base of the leaf. In some cases roots appear from the severed veins.
Leaf-Bud cuttings
These cuttings incorporate a leaf, petiole and a small piece of the stem. These cuttings are an advantage where the plant uses the axillary bud at the base of the petiole for new shoot growth and maximises available propagation material, as each node will produce a new plant.
As in softwood cuttings these require an environment with high humidity and warmth.
Root cuttings
These cuttings are best taken from younger plants during late winter to early spring prior the new season's growth unless the dormant period is during summer.
Trim the roots as they are dug up and to maintain polarity cut strength at the crown end and a slanted cut at the distal end (away from the crown).
Root cuttings of small plants are placed in flats in lengths of 20 to 50 mm and laying horizontally on the surface of the soil. These may be lightly covered with sieved sand or media, watered and then placing a piece of glass or polyethylene over the container till roots / shoots appear.
Fleshy root cuttings
These cuttings should be 50 to 75 mm long and placed vertically in a well-drained sand media.
Keep the polarity correct and when the roots develop transplant the cuttings into a separate container.
Large root cuttings
These cuttings are 50 to 150 mm long and are tied up in bundles and placed in boxes of damp sand, sawdust or peat for about three weeks at a temperature of 4. 5 deg C. When taken out they should be planted in a prepared bed 50 to 80 mm apart with the tops of the cuttings level with or just below the soil level.
PEST
NAME
Leafminer (General)
Various Leafminer Species
Description of the Pest
There is a wide range of insects that have larvae, which mine leaves and these are found throughout the world. These include beetles, wasps, sawflies, moths and flies. The larvae may or may-not have legs, but are normally flattened.
These insects have a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.
Typical Leafminer
Cigar Case Bearer (Coleophora caryaefoliella) adult is a brown moth with fringed wing margins up to 9mm across. The tiny lava has a black head and feed beneath the epidermal layer of the leaf and over winters in small cigar-shaped cocoon. Commonly found on Carya species.
Cineraria Leaf Miner (Chromatomia syngenesiae) is in the family Agromyzidae. This insect has a complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The adult is a small (2mm) black fly. Female adults puncture the undersides of leaves to feed on the sap. Cream coloured larvae (maggots) are miners, up to 5mm long, and their tunnels appear as a tracery of irregular white lines on the leaves, through which the larvae will be visible on the lower surfaces. The pupa is darker-coloured, barrel-shaped and up to 2.5 mm in length.
The feeding of females causes small rust-like spots to appear on the upper surface of leaves. The eggs are deposited on the undersides of the leaves. The tunnels of the larvae become wider as the insect grows and may eventually cause the infested foliage to wilt. Heavily infested plants will die; more often, the appearance of the plant is spoilt by the disfigured leaves, even though it will still produce flowers.
Cypress Moth (Recurvaria apicitripunctella) female adult is a small, yellowish with fringed wings and black markings. The larva tunnels into leaves and then ties them together with silken web, it found on Taxodium mucronatum.
Grevillea Leaf Miner (Peraglyphis atimina) a tiny larvae that eats the inner tissue of leaves and forms tunnels that expand as they grow.
The Leaf Miner (Epinotia nanana) is an olive green caterpillar with a brown head that attacks the base of the leaf and webs them together as it progresses. It is found in Tsuga species.
The Leaf Miner (Lithocolletis crataegella) lava forms tunnels in the inner tissue of the leaf, which becomes wider forming blisters that turn light brown. It normally occurs during late spring attacking unfolded leaves of many plant species including Crataegus.
Macadamia Leaf Miner (Arocercops chionosema) larva forms tunnels that lead to blisters in the leaves and the adult moth is brown with silver bands.
Damage Caused
There is a range of symptoms as a result of attack. Damage appears initially as tunnels on the underside of the leaves, which become broader. The leaf may form blisters and turn a rusty colour with patches visible on both sides. Continual feeding can cause the leaf to fall prematurely and give the plant an unattractive appearance. This attack is a serious problem in a forestry situation but is normally insignificant in a domestic garden. Attacks may be sporadic.
Banksia integrifolia
Cineraria Leaf Miner
Tunnels begin to appear in early spring and continue through early summer, particularly during cooler, humid periods. The adult fly is inconspicuous and tends to go unnoticed - its presence is indicated by the appearance of the rust-like spots on the leaves as described above. Tunnels of larvae, in which the maggot pupates, may become up to 2mm wide and cover most of the surface of the foliage.
Period of Activity
The larvae are active from summer to autumn and are found from the tropics to temperate regions and generally the eggs are laid on the underside of leaves.
Susceptible Plants
There is a wide range of ornamentals and native plants that are attacked by leaf miners, including vegetables, perennials, annuals, shrubs and trees such as Nyssa sylvatica.
Aquilegia species leaves are attacked by the leaf miner (Phytomyza minuscula) which causes obvious winding white tunnels across the leaf surface.
Betula species are attacked by the leaf miner (Fenusa pusilla). The small black sawfly emerges from the soil primarily during spring. The small worm-like white lava feeds on the fresh new growth, and may cause substantial damage. Adults that emerge later in the season cause less destruction as the lava ignore mature leaves feeding only on new growth.
Buxus species are attacked by the leaf miner (Monarthropalpus buxi) that causes water soaked areas on the underside of leaves as the lava tunnels beneath the epidermal layer.
Cornus species are susceptible to the leaf miner (Chalepus dorsalis) yellowish lava up to 7mm long that tunnels the leaves causing blisters and the adult beetles skeletonise the underside of the leaves.
Leucanthemum and Dendranthema species are attacked by the Chrysanthemum Leaf Miner (Phytomyza atricornis).
Macadamia species and Stenocarpus salignus are attacked by the Macadamia Leaf Miner.
Pericallis x hybridus (Cineraria) is attacked by the Cineraria Leaf Miner (Chromatomia syngenesiae). Leafy vegetables are also susceptible, as are plants in the Asteracea family and related ornamentals such as chrysanthemums, nasturtiums, and gerberas. Sow thistle and other leafy weeds are hosts for this insect. The foliage becomes covered with unsightly, tortuous silvery lines which ultimately ruin the appearance of the plant. Heavy infestations cause wilting and death of the plants. Do not take cuttings from affected plants.
Verbena species are attacked by the leaf miner (Agromyza artemisiae), which mines the leaf margins.
Cultural Control
It is difficult to control leaf miners and damaged leaves may be removed then destroyed from localised infestations.
Biological Control
Many leaf miners are attacked by parasitic wasps and small birds which reduces numbers.
Chemical Control
Chemical treatment includes spraying with dimethoate; note that it is advisable to treat the plants before the larvae pupate and being certain to cover the new growth avoiding reinfestation.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.
PEST
NAME
Borer (General)
Various Borer Species
ORDER
Various
FAMILY
Various
Description of the Pest
Generally the larvae bore holes into the heartwood, sapwood or down the centre of twigs. These tunnels may be small or large, deep or shallow and when they emerge from their tunnels at night, they feed on the surrounding tissue. Entrance holes may be covered by a layer of chewed wood fragments ("frass"), silk webbing or exposed and the tunnels may be solitary or form galleries. Certain species attack only twigs and young shoots, while others attack the trunk or roots.
Fruit tree moth borer damage
The adults female of a fruit tree moth borer normally deposits eggs in damaged areas of the bark or where there is and existing active site. The larvae vary but generally they are creamy to brown, thick soft grub-like reddish brown, and up to 40mm in length.
The adults are white, satiny moths with 40-60mm wingspans with their black abdomens fringed with orange-brown hair or beetle lava that has been deposited in the bark or twigs then tunnels the host.
American Plum Borer (Euzophera semifuneralis) lava is pinkish white to brownish green and attacks the inner bark and cambium region of the tree causing premature death. It is normally found on Platanus orFraxinus species and may also infest many species of fruit trees.
Apple Root Borer (Leptopius squalidus) female adult is a weevil to 20mm long and feeds on the leaves and the plump, legless grub-like lava feeds on the roots of the same host forming tunnels in the deep roots. It is commonly found on Acacia and Eucalyptus species damaging the anchorage of the plant.
Banksia Borer (Cyria imperialis) adult is a black beetle with yellow markings on its wing covers growing to 15mm long. The thickish legless lava is white, tapering from the head and forms flattened tunnels into the heartwood of the host.
Bronze Birch Borer (Agrilus anxius) is a bronze coloured beetle up to 14mm long and lays eggs in crevices in the bark. The legless white larva grows to 20mm long and feeds on the sapwood girdling the branch with flat irregular galleries.
Cedar Tree Borer (Semanotus ligneus) is a black beetle with orange and red markings on its wing covers and grows to 12mm long. The larva feeds on the sapwood of Sequoia, Thuja species and Pinus radiata with curved tunnels that may girdle branches.
Chestnut Borer (Agrilus bilineatus) adult is a tiny slender, blackish green beetle up to 8mm long emerging during spring. The small white larvae have a flat head and are up to 15mm long, forming galleries under the bark of Quercus species.
Cypress Bark Beetle (Phloeosinus cupressi) adult is dark brown with a blackish head, oblong in shape up to 3mm long. The tiny beetles tunnels under the bark of the host and deposits eggs. After hatching the tiny 4mm long, legless larvae bore into the heartwood damaging the tree. After they pupate in the tunnel they emerge through small round holes, commonly many together on the trunk. Damaged trees show signs of browning and dead leaves in the upper branches or falling damage twigs. Cupressus species are particularly vulnerable to attack.
Deodar Weevil (Pissodes nemorensis) is brownish with an obvious snout feeding on the cambium layer and deposits eggs in the bark of the leader and branches. The white lava tunnel the wood eventually killing the leader.
European Corn Borer (Pyrausta nubilalis) is a small moth that lays up to twenty eggs on flower buds. The young flesh coloured larvae mature to a reddish brown and each of its segment has four, spined dark spots.
Elephant Weevil (Orthorhinus cylindrirostris) is a grey or black insect up to 20mm long and lays eggs in the bark near the base of stressed trees. The larva tunnels its way through roots or trunks depositing frass as it goes, then emerging from a second round hole. The adults eat strips from the leaves, normally not bothering the plant.
Elm Borer (Saperda tridentate) adult is a greyish beetle with red bands and black spots on its wing covers and is up to 12mm long. The eggs are laid on the bark and the whitish lava tunnels into the bark and sapwood where it overwinters. It is normally found on Ulmus species.
Iris Borer (Macronoctua onusta) is born from a grey moth with a wing span up to 30mm across, and lays eggs that overwinter in old leaves and debris. As the leaves emerge the eggs hatch entering the leaves at the base, visually forming tunnels and growing to 30mm long. In the later season flower buds may be attacked. Both flowers and leaves eventually turn brown and die.
Lilac Borer (Podosesia syringae) adult is a wasp-like moth that produces pure white lava with a brown head that are up to 25mm long. It initially feeds in the sapwood causing wilting before tunnelling the hardwood making the branches brittle. Evidence of frass is found at the tunnel entrance and secondary fungal attacks infect the holes. Normally found on Syringa species.
Locust Borer (megacyllene robiniae) adult is a black beetle with golden spots, up to 20mm long and produces a small larva that tunnels galleries into the sapwood causing a blackish discolouration. Robinia species are normally attacked.
Mottled Borer (Cryptorhynchus lapathi) attacks Salix species. The adult beetle is black up to 10mm long and the lava bore into the surface of the stem causing swollen growth. Salix species are attacked.
Murry Pine Borer can be two species (Diaoxus erythrurus) and (Diaoxus scalaris). The adults are glossy green-brown beetles that are up to 20mm long and the white grub-like lava is legless, tapering from the head. They tunnel into the sap or hardwood of the trees forming connecting galleries causing ringbarking and creating brittle branches, commonly fond on Callitris species.
Peach Borer (Sanninoidea exitiosa) is a larva that tunnels roots causing gummosis that is mixed with frass at the crown just below soil level. The affected Prunus species produce yellowish leaves and grows poorly. There is another borer, Lesser Peach Borer (Synanthedon pictipes) which attacks any part of the plant from the trunk to the branches and is found on several Prunus species.
Puriri Moth (Aenetus Virescens) a New Zealand short lived moth that grows with a wing span of over 100mm (4in) wide laying eggs on the forest floor at night during spring. The caterpillars grow to 100mm long feeding on leaves and then ascending into the trees and entering the cambium layer up to 150mm deep forming a characteristic '7'-shape burrow that is concealed by frass. The caterpillar may live for 7-years before pupating and collectively they ring bark branches or trunks causing dieback.
Many New Zealand plants including Nothofagus solandri, Pomaderris spp.and ornamentals such as Quercus spp. Betula pendula, Salix spp. Populus spp. Acer spp. Citrus limon and Paulownia spp. are attacked. Control is difficult and generally the plants tolerate attack.
White Pine Weevil (Pissodes strobi) lava feed on the inner bark and sap wood of terminal shoots causing ringbarking and death of the shoot. The reddish brown beetle up to 6mm long is mottled in white and emerges during early summer then lays yellowish lava that are up to 9mm long.
Scribble Moth (Ogmorgraptis scribula) is a grey moth up to 0.4mm wide and produces a cream to brown larvae that is also about 0.4mm long and tunnels in the bark causing a scribble effect. This normally has no detrimental effect on the tree.
Spotted Hemlock Borer (Melanophila fulvoguttata) adult is a colourful metallic beetle with yellowish red spots on the wing covers and lays eggs in cracks in the bark. The white lava is up to 14mm long and forms galleries in the bark and sapwood of the host.
The large Swift Moth and Wood Moths can have a wing span up to 250mm wide and produce large larva that are grub like up to 150mm long, some with horny plates on the thorax. These larvae bore tunnels that are up to 30mm across straight through the heartwood of the host plant. The larvae may live in the tunnel for up to five years before pupating.
Red Cedar Bark Beetle (Phloesinus dentatus) is a small beetle up to 3mm long and lays its larva in excavations in the bark. When the larva emerges they bore galleries in the bark and tend to be more prevalent in stressed or recently transplanted plants.
Vegetable Weevil (Listroderes difficilis) is found during cooler weather (spring or autumn). The adult brown beetle up to 19mm long with a "V" mark on its back and the eggs are laid in the soil around the base of the host plant. The cream coloured lava emerges in spring after rain and feed on the lower leaves forming irregular holes or chewing holes in stems. The lava also feed on fleshy roots boring holes into carrots. Both the adults and lava cause damage, feeding on the plant during the night and resting at the base or under ground during the day. The lava pupates in the soil over winter.
Wattle Web-covering Borer (Cryptophasa rubescens) adult is a satin coloured moth that is up to 50mm across and deposits green fleshy lava that is up to 35mm long. The lava forms shallow tunnels in the bark and sap wood of the host and camouflages it with chewed wood and faeces that is webbed together. Commonly seen attacking the branches on Acacia species.
Life Cycle
These insects have normally have a Holometabolous life cycle. But some borers such as Termites have a Hemimetabolous life cycle.
Eggs are laid singly or in groups, in damaged areas of the bark and branch. Larvae shelter in tunnels they create in the wood and some species may take many years to pupate and emerge as an adult. This may take place in live or dead wood. Other species such as Corn Borer can have up to two generations per year.
Termites and their damage
Distribution of the Pest
Borers are found throughout the world with many species found in Australia both on the coast and inland.
Period of Activity
Varies with the insect concern. Many larvae can be active for many months. Termites are active all year.
Damage Caused
Most damage appears on branches or trunks where the larvae feed on the soft tissue and extensive feeding may cause ring-barking. Normally plants survive borer attack but repetitive attack will cause the death. Certain species are a serious pest in plantations or monocultures such as the Pine Bark Weevil, and the Sirex wood wasp.
Typical borer damage by a moth larva
Chestnut Borer feeds on the sap wood ringbarking large branches and overwinters in the tunnels.
Corn Borer feeds on flower buds and leaves resulting in there death, after which the larva tunnel down the stem causing wilting. There are many crop plants and ornamentals that are affected by this larva.
Swift Moth and Wood Moths weaken trees by boring large tunnels through the branches that may not be noticed until holes are cut through the bark during emergence.
Iris Borer damages leaves to turn brown and wilt, flowers also turn brown and with the aid of a bacterial rot, collapse and die. This damage may be extended to the flower stalk.
Stem Borer (Papaipema nebris) is a small lava to 12mm long, and attacks many garden plants including Lilium, Aster, Alcea and Phlox species
Borer Damage 
Resin oozing from a trunk
Susceptible Plants
There are many plants that are attacked by these pests including Banksia, Callistemon, Melaleuca, Lagerstroemia, Jacaranda species, and flowering stonefruit. Eucalyptus, Acacia species and many ornamental such as Acer species. Plants that are stressed, are particularly venerable.
Acacia and Eucalyptus species are attacked by Swift Moths and Wood Moths.
Acacia species are susceptible to attack from the Wattle Web-covering Borer (Cryptophasa rubescens), which weakens and causes die back of branches.
Acer platanoides is attacked by the Leaf Stalk Borer (Nepticula albostriella) that tunnels into the petiole of the leaf turning it blackish and also attacks the fruit.
Acer saccharinum is attacked by the Petiole Borer (Caulocampus acericaulis) which tunnels in the petioles. It generally attacks the leaves on the lower branches causing them to fall.
Acer species may also be attacked by several borers including the Flat Headed Borer (Chrysobothris femorata), a 25mm long lava of a coppered coloured beetle, that tunnels galleries under the bark girdling the trees The Sugar Maple Borer (Glycobius speciosus) which girdles branches killing them and the Leopard Moth (Zeuzera pyrina) lava that tunnels large holes into branches making them structurally weak. This lava can grow to 80mm long and 12mm thick overwintering in the tunnels.
Banksia species are attacked by the Banksia Web-covering Borer (Xylorycta strigata) a greenish lava up to 40mm long that tunnels down the centre of branch tips. The entrance is covered in silken web littered with faecal material and causes the death of the branchlets.
Betula and Populus species are attacked with the Bronze Birch Borer (Agrilus anxius) and heavy infestation may kill the tree. Populus species are also attacked by the Poplar Borer (Saperda calcarate).
Brachychiton species are attacked by the Kurrajong Weevil (Axionicus insignis) the lava of this plump greyish weevil is white and legless, entering the plant through wounds forming rounded tunnels that may girdle the tree, killing it.
Carya species are attacked by the Painted Hickory Borer (Megacyllene caryae). The adult dark brown beetle has obvious zig zag lines on its wing covers and the lava is cream coloured, both up to 20mm long. The lava tunnels the sapwood of living trees causing ring barking and also tunnels dead trees.
Cornus species are attacked by several borers such as the Flat Headed Borer (Chrysobothris femorata) and the Dogwood Borer (Thamnosphecia scitula).
Cupressus species are attacked by the Cypress Bark Beetle (Phloeosinus cupressi) causing the branches to turn brown and die off from the top or causing the leaves to wilt. On first indication of infestation selective prune off damaged areas or remove the tree.
Hakea sericea and other Hakea species are attacked by the Web-covering Borer (Neodrepta luteotactella). The larvae bore into the twigs and fruit forming a small covering of frass. This insect also infects Macadamia species. Hakeas are also attacked by several other web-covering borers.
Hakea sericea
Pinus and Picea species are attacked by the White Pine Weevil (Pissodes strobi) in the northern hemisphere.
Samanea saman is attacked by the borer (Xystrocera globosa) which chews into the sap wood of stressed trees and can cause serious damage.
Sorbus aucuparia is attacked by the Round Headed Borer (Saperda candida) which forms galleries in the trunk at ground level, forming round holes in the bark.
Tilia species are attacked by the European Bark Borer (Chrysoclista linneela), which feeds on the bark and thew Linden Borer (Saperda vestita) that attacks the base of the trunk or roots.
Tsuga species are attacked by Spotted Hemlock Borer (Melanophila fulvoguttata).
Vaccinium ovatum is infested by the Azalea Stem Borer (Oberea myops). The yellowish lava of this beetle bores into the tips of stems during the flowering period and is up to 12mm (½in) long. It is also commonly found on Rhododenron species.
Control
Cultural Control
Larvae may be destroyed after exposure by pulling away the covering pad of frass, or by pushing a length of wire into the tunnel. Damaged branches may be removed. Improve the culture by feeding and watering the plant.
Frass due to the Fruit tree moth borer
Biological Control
No effective biological control though certain species of trees exude gum or resin sealing the holes and limiting the activity of the larvae or causing its death.
Chemical Control
There is no satisfactory chemical control most borers of live wood.
Note
It is your responsibility by law to read & follow the directions on the label of any pesticide
PEST
NAME
Scale Insect
Various Scale Species
ORDER
Hemiptera
Description of the Pest
Generally scales are soft bodied insects that have a hard (armoured) or soft covering to hide under. They have piercing and sucking mouth parts that are attached to the host, feed off sap and soft scales commonly producing sweet honeydew, which in turn attracts sooty mould and ants.
The adult female has a circular or oval covering depending on the species and is up to 8mm across. The first stage (crawlers) hatch and wander around the leaf surface until finding a suitable place to suck sap, normally in colonies and the smaller male is relatively inconspicuous.
Hard Scale 
Soft Scale, attending Ants
Cactus Scale (Diaspis echinocacti) has a circular greyish female and a narrow white male scale and is commonly found on house plants.
Chain Scales (Pulvinaria species) adult females are obvious with large group of eggs that are white or cottony-like, and the tiny young light green scales are flat and oval-shaped up to 2mm long. The legged nymphs are normally arranged from head to tail along the mid rib of the leaf, and may move to a new position to feed. They excrete honeydew and attract sooty mould and are found on Acacia and Acronychia species.
Chinese Wax Scale
Chinese Wax Scale (Ceroplastes sinensis) is a domed wax scale that has dark spots around its margin and immature scales form waxy material around there margins.
Fern Scale on Aspidistra elatior
Fern Scale or Coconut Scale (Pinnaspis aspidistrae) appears as flecks up to 0.15mm long with a white covering over the male congregating on the underside of the fronds on the axils and among the sporangia causing them to turn yellow. Many species of fern are susceptible to infestation.
Flat Brown Scale
Flat Brown Scale (Eucalymnatus tessellates) are light brown up to 0.5mm long, flat and closely attached both sides of the leaf and causing yellowing of the foliage.
Juniper Scale (Diaspis carueli) is tiny and circular, white maturing to grey-black and as it feeds the needles turn yellow and die.
Oleander Scale (Aspidiotus hederae) is a pale yellow circular scale up to 3mm across and is found in dense colonies on the stem or leaves.
Tea-tree Scale (Eriococcus orariensis) are a creamy blue colour normally packed along the branches and are plump and rounded to 4mm across.
Wattle Tick Scale
Tick or Wattle Scale (Cryptes baccatus) adult is domed, blue-slate colour with a leathery covering up to 10mm long. All stages of growth are found in groups of over forty, packed along the stems and normally tended by ants as they produce large amounts of honeydew. A serious pest of Acacia species found inland or coastal from temperate to sub tropical climates and commonly accompanied by Sooty Mould.
Toxic Scale (Hemiberlesia lataniae) is a tiny flat rounded scale up to 0.15mm long and is white to pale pink. It is normally found in colonies on the small branches and twigs of shrubs. It injects a toxic substance into the host as it sucks sap causing the death of the branch.
Wattle Scale (Pseudococcus albizziae) is soft, plump and secrets cotton-like threads. It is not a true scale insect and is simular to mealy bugs. It is reddish-brown up to 0.4mm long and secrets large amounts of honeydew as it sucks sap in colonies along the branches.
Life Cycle
These insects have a Hemimetabolous life cycle, ie. When the immature nymphs resemble the adults.
Appearance of the Pest
All parts of the plant above the soil may be attacked, but normally the stems and leaves and scale tends to favour well-lit positions.
Period of Activity
The nymphs and females are active for most of the year, in warm climates. Once they selected a position they attach and don't move. Normally the winged or wingless males are mobile and only soft scales produce honeydew.
Susceptible Plants
There is a wide range of susceptible plants including citrus, willows, holly, and many ornamentals, such as roses or Paeonia species. It also attacks indoor or glasshouse plants and Australian native plants such as wattles, hakeas, grevilleas and eucalyptus.
Acacia species are attacked by the Tick or Wattle Scale, which infest twigs and small branches and heavy infestations will kill the host plant.
Acer species are attacked by the Cotton Maple Scale (Pulvinaria innumerabilia) which prefers Acer saccharinum. Nymphs first attack the leaves and the brown adult scale is covered in a woolly mass up to 14mm across, normally found on the underside of the stems and twigs.
Acmena smithii, Melaleuca, Syzygium and Pittosporum species are attacked by the Chinese Wax Scale.
Aesculus species are attacked by several scale insects including the Walnut Scale (Aspidiotus juglans-regiae) which is saucer-shaped and attacks the main trunks.
Agave species are susceptible to several types of scale including (Aspidiotus nerii), (Aonidiella aurantii) and (Pinnaspis strachani), but generally do not require control.
Asplenium australasicum
Asplenium australasicum is susceptible to Coconut Scale or Fern Scale (Pinnaspis aspidistrae). It is normally found on the under side of the fronds. Small infestations cause little damage.
Bougainvillea species may be attacked by the soft scale (Coccus hesperidum) outdoors or under glass.
Calluna and Vaccinium species are attacked by the Oyster Shell Scale (Lepidosaphes ulmi).
Camellia species may be attacked by the Florida Red Scale (Chrysomphalus aonidum), which is small, circular and black and is found firmly attached to the underside of the leaf along the veins. On inspection after removing the scale the insect has a pale yellow body. Camellias are also attacked by a large variety of scale insects including Tea Scale and Camellia Scale.
Carpinus species may be attacked by the scale (Phenacoccus acericola). It is found on the underside of the leaves forming a white cotton-like clump along the veins.
Casuarina and Allocasuarina species may be attacked by the Casuarina Scale (Frenchia casuarinae), a black hard scale that is upright to 4mm with a pinkish body. During attachment the surrounding tissue swells up and in time can, form galls. This weakens the wood and in severe infestations may kill the tree.
Cotoneaster species are attacked by up to four species of scale including the Oyster Shell Scale (Lepidosaphes ulmi).
Cupressus species are attacked by Bark Scale (Ehrhornia cupressi) is pink and covered in white wax. Heavy infestations cause the leaves to turn yellow or reddish.
Flat Brown Scale on Cycas revoluta
Cycads, palms and some species of Callistemon are attacked by the Flat Brown Scale.
Erica species are attacked by several species of scale including, Greedy, Oleander and Oystershell scale.
Jasminum species can be infested with up to twelve types of scale.
Juniperus x media and other conifer species are attacked by the Juniper Scale.
Leptospermum species are attacked by the Tea-tree Scale which produces ample honey dew that promotes sooty mould.
Palm and Fern species are susceptible to attack by the Coconut Scale or Fern Scale (Pinnaspis aspidistrae) which infests the underside of the leaves. They are also hosts for many other scale species such as red, cottony cushion and tea scale.
Pinus species are attacked by several species of scale including the Pine Tortoise Scale (Toumeyella numismaticum) and the Red Pine Scale (Matsucoccus resinosae).
Polygonum odoratum is attacked by a small brown scale.
Sorbus aucuparia is attacked by a five species of scale insect, including Black Cottony Maple, San Jose and Scurfy. Generally they suck on the sap of the new growth and leaves.
Strelitzia species are attacked by the Greedy Scale (Aspidiotus camelliae).
Damage Caused
Leaves become yellow and are shed prematurely and there may be twig or stem die-back. When the infestation occurs on fruit, the fruit is small and its skin becomes pitted and cracked. Small trees and saplings that are heavily infested may be seriously damaged or die. Sooty mould can cover fruit or leaves causing a secondary problem.
Cactus Scale can completely cover the host cactus sucking sap and causing it to die.
Cultural Control
Dead or damaged parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed including fallen fruit. Small infestations may be removed by hand or squashed on the stems. Healthy plants are less susceptible to attack, so maintain vigour of the plant and avoid using high-nitrogen fertiliser that produces excessive soft young growth.
When pruning susceptible plants paint the cuts with antifungal sealant paint as scale insects are attracted to the sweet smell of the sap. This will reduce the infection rate of the plant.
Biological Control
Natural predators such as parasitic wasps may reduce numbers of active nymphs; parasitic wasps are bred commercially in some areas for this purpose. It should be noted, however, that wasps would avoid dusty conditions.
Other predators that assist in control are assassin bugs, ladybirds, lacewings, hover flies and scale eating caterpillars. A variety of birds also attack scales.
The control of ants that transport aphid from one host to another also reduces infestation and can be carried out by applying at least three greased bandages 5mm apart around the stem or trunk of the plant.
Chemical Control
Spray the entire plant with dilute white oil solution; a follow-up spray may be required after four weeks, for heavy infestations. Spraying of chemicals will also kill of natural predators and in some cases the secondary scale infestation is more prolific especially when using copper based chemicals.
Some chemical controls, such as methidathion, are available - please seek advice from your local nursery as to the suitable product for your area.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.
PEST
NAME
Painted Apple Moth
Teia anartoides
ORDER
Lepidoptera
FAMILY
Lymantriidae
Description of the Pest
Adult males are 25mm long and have a 25mm wingspan, with brown forewings and yellow hindwings with black edges. Females are also 25mm long, but wingless. Larvae are furry brown caterpillars, up to 30mm long, with four prominent tufts of reddish brown hair behind the head, and two horn-like tufts of black hair projecting forward. The caterpillar's hair may cause skin irritation.
Wingless Female
Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
An Australian native, most commonly found in temperate and subtropical regions. Originally known as the painted wattle moth, feeding exclusively on acacias, it has adapted to feed on apples and other species.
Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.
Larvae pupate in loosely woven cocoons; eggs are laid on the empty cocoons.
Period of Activity
May be active all year, particularly during the cooler months.
Damage Caused
Larvae may skeletonise leaves; small plants may be defoliated. Because females are flightless, infestations are localised.
Susceptible Plants
A wide range of plants are affected, including apples, Acacias, Melaleucas, Grevilleas, and many exotics. Some fern species are also attacked.
Rosa species leaves are attacked by larva.
Cultural Control
Remove small infestations of larvae and cocoons by hand.
Biological Control
None known.
Chemical Control
Maldison, Carbaryl or other contact pesticides are effective; a wetting agent is necessary to penetrate the larval hair.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.
Note: Plants affected by this pest are Deer Resistant plants not the susceptible plants.
PEST
NAME
Deer
Cervus species
ORDER
Artiodactyla
FAMILY
Cervidae
Description of the Pest
There are two species of the deer in North America, the Whitetail (Odocoileus virginianus) and the Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) with several regional variations such as the Pacific coastal Blacktail (O.h. columbianus) which is regarded as a sub-species of the Mule deer.
The Whitetail on average grows to 112 cm (44in) tall and 180 mm (70 in) long and weigh 68 kgs (150lbs). The fir colour varies according to its environment but generally it is reddish-brown during summer and grey-brown in winter with a pure white underside on its tail. When the tail is erect it is known as the "white flag". Its antlers consist of two main beams from which the points emerge.
The Mule deer grow to 105 cm (42 in) tall and are up to 200 cm (80 in) long with the adult buck weighing up to 137 kgs (300 lbs) and the does up to 80 kgs (175 lbs). The fir is generally tawny brown during summer and during winter it has a heaver grey-brown to blue-grey coat with a small white tail that is tipped in black. The other distinguishing features are its ears that are up to 300 mm (1 ft) long (mule-like) and its antlers, with the two beams that are forked into smaller beams, which inturn fork again and again.
The Blacktail deer (Pacific coastal Blacktail) grows to 97 cm (38 in) tall and is up to 105 cm (60 in) long and weighs on average 73 kgs (160 lbs). The fir is generally tawny brown during summer and during winter it has a heaver grey-brown to blue-grey coat with a tail that is dark brown at the base then changing to black for 50% of its length. The antlers consist of two beams that are forked into smaller beams, which inturn fork again and again.
Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
The Whitetail deer are found throughout eastern United States, on the coast and inland but are not commonly seen in California, Utah or Nevada. They do not migrate but congregate together (yard up) during winter and feed in a part of their existing territory.
The Mule Deer are found in the western part of North America from South eastern Alaska to Mexico and from the Pacific coast to Texas. They migrate from highland mountain meadows to southern or lower snow free forested valleys during winter.
The Blacktail deer are found on the Pacific coast from Alaska to northern California. There is both resident and migratory Blacktails. The migratory Blacktails move southwards during late autumn at the first sigh of snow or heavy sustained rain and the resident Blacktails seek cover their existing territory amongst woodlands during the winter months.
Life Cycle
All Deer breed from autumn to early winter and the does give birth from late spring to early summer.
Period of Activity
Deer are most active from spring to autumn but can be troublesome during winter when the feed is scarce. In some regions urban landscapes become the major food source both in summer and winter.
Damage Caused
Browsing deer will feed on almost any plant and is most commonly noticeable during spring feeding on the new growth or twigs and stems leaving a shredded appearance. Deer also rub their antlers against trees damaging bark and snapping off small branches, this action also incurs damage under hoof as plants, lawns and garden structures are trampled on.
Susceptible Plants
Some plants are more palatable to deer but when a deer is hungry or during drought conditions there are no "Deer Proof" plants. There is a range of plants that have a bad taste and are not destroyed and are regarded as (deer resistant plants). Deer resistant plants are the plants that are attached to this file not the susceptible plants.
Cultural Control
There are many cultural controls that have been tried to move browsing deer such as frightening them with strobe lights, pyrotechnics or tethered savage dogs. These actions are only temporary and may cause more trouble as the stampeding animals move off. Fencing and netting can be an effective method of discouraging hungry deer from gardens but may be expensive on a large scale and require maintenance. There are several types of fences which include conventional 2.2m (8 ft) deer-proof woven wire fences or single-wire electric fences and slanted deer fences. Plant selection can also be effective, by using less desirable plants (deer resistant plants) as an outer border to the more desirable plant species and thus discouraging the deer to enter the garden. Hedges and windrows of less desirable thorny plants can also be a deterrent to browsing deer.
Chemical Control
There are two main types of repellents contact and area. Contact repellents are applied directly to the plants and deter deer with a bad taste or smell. They can be applied by rubbing or spraying on to the plants and commonly used in an egg mixture. The commercial products have proven to work better than home remedies which include soap or chilli mixtures and hanging bags of human hair.
Area repellents rely on an offensive odour and are placed around areas that are frequently visited.
Contact your local distributor for available types and application.
Average Lowest Temperature : -5º C 23º F
USDA : 8, 9, 10
This USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) hardiness zone chart can be used to indicate a plant’s ability to withstand average minimum temperatures. However, other factors such as soil type, pH, and moisture, drainage, humidity and exposure to sun and wind will also have a direct effect on your plant’s survival. Use this chart only as a guide, always keep the other factors in mind when deciding where, when and what to plant.
A plant's individual USDA zone can be found in the Plant Overview.
Climate Description
Cool Temperate
This zone has low winter temperatures and moderate summer temperatures with low humidity and cool nights. Frosts are severe with snow at higher altitudes.
Drought rarely occurs and wind is cold inland or wet on the coast.
Plant growth
Cool weather plants grow well.
| Dictionary | Growth Habit |
| Leaf Type | Botanic Flower Description |
| Leaf Shape | Flower Inflorescence |
| Leaf Arrangement | Fruit Type |
| Leaf Margin | Bark Type |
| Leaf Apex And Bases | Flower Description |
