Water Bush, Silver-leaved Water Bush
Grevillea nematophylla

Family: Proteaceae

What it is like

A medium sized shrub. It grows 2-10 m high and spreads 1.5-5 m wide. The young growth is hairy. The bark is dark grey and cracked along its length. The leaves are simple and 30 cm long by 0.2 cm wide. They have 3-10 angular lobes. The flowers are white, pink or cream. They have a scent. The fruit are 2.4 cm long by 1.4 cm wide.

There are 250 Grevillea species.

Where it is found

It grows in arid and semiarid regions. It grows on stony soils. It needs full sun.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The roots are cut into short lengths and the water allowed to drain out. The plant also has edible grubs in the roots.

Edible parts

Sap, grubs

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. Seed take 30-70 days to germinate. It is best to prick the seed coat or soak seed in water.

Plants can live for up to 30 years.

Its other names

Local names

Burrum, Ilpara, Jarailpa, Ultukum

Synonyms

Grevillea purdieana Diels;