Hakea
victoria: Fitzgerald
River National Park is situated on the south coast of Western Australia. More
than 1800 species of native plants occur in the Park. Probably the most famous
plant native to Fitzgerald River National Park is Hakea victoria. This
striking plant develops into a tall upright shrub with rigid rounded leave.
The leaves have a prickly margin and a green rim. The bulk of the
leaves vary, in colour, from bright yellow ageing to orange then brilliant
red. Hakea victoria has been called the world’s most beautiful
foliage plant. To see this Hakea
in the wild is one of life’s rich horticultural experiences. Unfortunately
in cultivation the foliage often does not develop brilliant colours although
plants in the USA have developed yellow and orange foliage colours. The
flowers and fruits are insignificant in comparison to the leaves. Gloves are
needed to harvest the fruits as they are hidden at the base of the prickly
leaves. Foliage appears to colour best in poor soil with low nutrients. A
theory suggests that the plant gets some nutrients for new growth by removing
them from older foliage. This leads to the colour change. Hakea victoria
is classified as a rare plant with limited distribution. The total population
is protected in Fitzgerald River National Park.
The species is named after Queen Victoria and was first introduced to England
in 1845.
The photograph was taken during a botanical tour
of Western Australia in 1999.