Hakea laurina (Sea Urchin)

Admired for its striking flowers, Hakea laurina (Sea Urchin) is a large upright evergreen shrub or small tree of compact, rounded habit, with bold and handsome, blue-green lanceolate leaves, 5-7 in. long (12-17 cm), that wave and curl attractively. In late spring to early summer, clusters of tiny flower buds start to form, becoming fat and pointed by fall. They open from fall to late winter, to reveal showy rounded pincushion flower heads, up to 2 in. across (5 cm). Soft cardinal or cherry red, they are adorned with projecting long styles, and look like pincushions stuck with golden pins. A handsome shrub worthy of inclusion in the garden or used as a screen or hedge. Tolerant of drought and coastal condition, Hakea laurina attracts birds into the garden and is also useful for cut flower arrangements.

• Grows up to 10-20 ft. tall and wide (3-6 m).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in well-drained soils. Almost any garden soil is suitable as long as it is lime-free. Good drainage is critical. Irrigate regularly, occasionally to very little once established. Drought tolerant.
• Perfect as a specimen or accent plant, hedges. Great in Mediterranean gardens and coastal gardens.
• Moderate pruning and shaping may be done as required 
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Native to southern parts of Western Australia.