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Why has my Grevillea gone white?

I bought two Grevillea Gilded Dragons back in September, but one of them has developed some white arms? What have I done wrong or what do I need to do to help it? The other seems fine. I’m in Perth, WA so I know it’s been hot but, as I say, the others in that same area don’t have this issue. It’s on the west side of the house, up against a wall.

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EricL

Hello @EvaMarie

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your Grevillea.

Your Grevillea ‘Gilded Dragon’ appears to be showing a bit of localized dieback, where a few branches have turned pale or white, and this is quite common with young grevilleas in Perth’s intense summer conditions. Because the plant is on the west side of your house and right up against a wall, it is likely dealing with strong afternoon sun combined with radiant heat, which can scorch branch tips and cause the patchy bleaching you’re seeing, even when nearby plants seem unaffected.

Heat stress is the most likely cause, though occasional under-watering on very hot days, wind scorch, or minor root stress can contribute as well. Fortunately, grevilleas are tough and usually bounce back once conditions improve. You can help it by pruning off the obviously bleached or dead sections to encourage new growth, giving it a slow, deep watering during extreme heat without watering too frequently, and checking that water is draining well and not pooling near the wall.

If the sun is particularly harsh, temporary afternoon shade can also prevent further scorch while the plant settles in. I propose using Jack 71 x 71cm Clear All Weather Plant Cover. Avoid feeding it for now unless you are using a very gentle, low-phosphorus native fertiliser.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

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