Hakea
fraseri is a rare species growing in Oxley Wild Rivers National
Park, east of Armidale. At one time a Hakea from southern Queensland
was included in the species. This Queensland species is now considered to be Hakea
lorea subsp. lorea. Hakea fraseri is named after Charles
Fraser who collected the species in 1818. Hakea fraseri is a medium to
tall shrub with drooping foliage. The long narrow leaves have a sharp tip. The
large flower clusters are cream-white with purple bases and appear in spring.
The flowers are similar in appearance to the flowers of Hakea petiolaris. This
species is one of the few Hakeas that shed their seeds when they mature. Hakea
fraseri grows on cliff faces and scree slopes and consequently is very
hard to visit. This is a plant with great horticultural potential. Propagation
is from seed and perhaps cuttings.