Characteristics:
- Rich Red Blooms: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' boasts vibrant, deep red, bottlebrush-shaped flowers that erupt in abundance during spring. The blooms are a true spectacle, attracting nectar-loving birds and adding a touch of Aussie flair to any garden.
- Graceful Foliage: The shrub possesses attractive, grey-green, needle-like foliage that provides a beautiful contrast to the rich red flowers. This evergreen foliage adds year-round interest, even in cooler climates.
- Adaptable to Light: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' breaks the mold for Waratahs by tolerating partial shade. While it thrives in full sun, it can also perform well in areas with dappled sunlight, making it a versatile choice for gardens with varying light conditions.
- Medium-Sized Majesty: This Telopea cultivar typically matures to a height of 3 meters (10 feet) and a width of 1.5 meters (5 feet). Its bushy growth habit creates a stunning visual impact, especially when planted as a specimen shrub or in borders.
- Climate Tolerance: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' flourishes in warm temperate and subtropical climates. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8b to 11 and exhibits moderate frost tolerance.
Care Tips:
- Sun or dappled shade: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' offers flexibility. Plant it in a position receiving full sun for at least 6 hours daily for optimal flowering. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, making it suitable for dappled sunlight areas.
- Drainage Matters: The shrub flourishes in well-draining, acidic soil. Amending the planting site with compost or organic matter can enhance drainage and provide essential nutrients.
- Watering Wisely: Regular watering is crucial during the establishment period. Once mature, Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' exhibits moderate drought tolerance but will benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
- Light Pruning: Light pruning after flowering can encourage bushier growth and promote additional blooms in the following season. However, avoid excessive pruning, as Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' flowers on old wood.
Fascinating Facts:
- A Hybrid Star: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' is a product of crossing Telopea speciosissima and Telopea oreades, inheriting the best qualities of both parents, including its tolerance for partial shade.
- Bird-Attracting Beauty: The vibrant red flowers of Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' not only add visual interest but also attract nectar-loving birds like honeyeaters, adding to the vibrancy of your garden.
- Low-Maintenance Delight: Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' is a relatively low-maintenance shrub, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a pop of color without requiring extensive care.
By incorporating Telopea ‘Shady Lady Red' into your landscape, you can introduce a vibrant burst of color that thrives in various lighting conditions. With its adaptability, ease of care, and stunning blooms, this Telopia cultivar is sure to become a cherished addition to your garden, bringing a touch of Australian beauty to your space.
