Holly-leaf Dryandra, Parrot Bush
Dryandra sessilis

Family: Proteaceae

What it is like

A shrub or small tree. It can grow 2-5 m high. It spreads 1.5-4 m wide. It grows in dense prickly thickets. The leaves are greyish-green. They are 5 cm long by 3 cm wide. They have prickly teeth and are mostly fan shaped or wedge shaped. They are usually held in clumps. The flowers are cream or yellow. They are in dome shaped heads. These can be 3.5 cm across. They nestle within the leaves.

There are over 50 Dryandra species.

Where it is found

It is common in Western Australia. It grows on limestone derived soils. It is near the coast. It needs well drained soils and can stand light frost. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin), Britain, Europe

How it is used for food

The nectar of the flowers was sucked. The flowers are also soaked in water to make a sweet drink. The flowers also produce a characteristic honey.

Edible parts

Flowers, nectar

How it is grown

It can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Pudjak

Synonyms

Dryandra floribunda R.Br.; Probably now Banksia