How to identify Spider Flowers (Grevillea)

Photo By Luke Quinane , used under CC-BY /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Spider Flowers (Grevillea)

Spider Flowers, also known as Toothbrush plant

Spider Flowers are diverse in form, ranging from towering trees to graceful, erect shrubs, and even cascading varieties. They are easily identified by their unique flowers that resemble spiders, arrays of long, narrow petals radiating from the center resembling a spider's legs. Typically, the foliage of spider Flowers is a lush, dark green, and the plants remain evergreen throughout the year. They possess a robust tolerance to warmth and require an extended growing season to thrive. Certain types of spider Flowers are adapted to cooler climates and can withstand light frosts, making them suitable for regions with milder winters.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Spider Flowers

Terminal flower clusters with tubular shapes in varied colors, from white to orange.

Distinctive dry follicle fruit opening along one side, bearing woody texture.

Leaves alternately arranged, displaying fern-like to needle-like forms, 1-6 inches long.

Evergreen plants with lush, dark green foliage; tolerant to warmth and light frosts.

Unique spider-like flowers with long, narrow petals resembling a spider's legs.

Detailed Traits of Spider Flowers

Leaf Features

The leaves of spider Flowers are either simple or compound and are arranged alternately on the stem. They display significant variability, ranging from fern-like to needle-like forms. Leaf sizes differ amongst species but generally measure between 1 to 6 inches (2.5 to 15 cm) in length. The colors are predominantly green, maintaining attractiveness throughout the year. The leaf texture can be smooth or slightly rough, with a distinct vein pattern that contributes to their unique appearance.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Spider Flowers flowers form terminal clusters, with tubular shapes varying in color from white, red, yellow, to orange. They can be small and spider-like, or large and shaped like toothbrushes. A prominent feature is the large calyx covered with protruding filaments on one side, and the absence of petals. These flowers typically have a long blooming season, enhancing their ornamental appeal. Sizes can vary but often fall within 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of spider Flowers is a distinctive dry follicle that typically opens along one side to release 1-2 seeds. This fruit bears a woody texture and often appears leathery or fibrous. While the exact size can vary among species, it tends to be modestly proportioned. Upon maturity, spider Flowers's fruit can exhibit a range of natural hues from muted browns to subtle greys, blending seamlessly with their native habitats. These fruits are an adaptation to facilitate seed dispersal, with the opened side allowing seeds to escape when conditions are conducive to germination.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Identify Spider Flowers easily and quickly

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