Botanical Name
Lambertia formosa
Common Name
Mountain Devil
Description
Mountain Devil is a distinctive spreading native shrub renowned for its red flowers and characteristic woody seed pods that creates fascinating displays in Australian gardens. This attractive species produces clusters of red flowers mainly in spring and summer with sporadic blooming in cooler months, attracting nectar-eating wildlife while providing excellent food sources. The woody seed pods develop distinctive “devil face” markings that give the plant its common name and add ornamental interest year-round. The slightly spiky foliage provides excellent shelter for smaller birds while creating attractive evergreen coverage. Hardy and frost tolerant once established, it thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade positions with excellent coastal tolerance. Perfect for wildlife gardens, coastal plantings, and areas where spreading native shrubs with unique seed pods create memorable landscape displays.
Plant Category
Medium Shrubs
Size (H x W)
Height: 2 meters, Spread: 2 meters
Lambertia formosa naturally occurs along the coast and adjacent mountains of New South Wales, thriving in well-drained soils with good drainage and full sun to partial shade exposure in temperate to subtropical climates.
Cultural SIgnificance
Traditionally valued by Aboriginal peoples as part of the diverse Proteaceae family, with the nectar-rich flowers being important food sources for native wildlife and the distinctive seed pods having cultural significance in traditional storytelling and seasonal indicators.
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