Huma Naveed
Hakea Laurina, or the Pincushion Hakea, is a stunning Australian native, but even hardy plants face challenges. If your Hakea looks sickly, with yellow leaves, pests, or no blooms, don’t panic! This guide offers simple, proven fixes to Common Hakea Laurina problems in Australia.
Many Aussie gardeners face problems with Common Hakea Laurina, such as yellowing leaves, root rot, and a lack of flowering.
1. Yellow Leaves on Hakea Laurina 🍃
One of Australia’s most common problems with Hakea laurina is yellowing leaves. This often results from overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient imbalance.
Fix: Ensure your soil is sandy or loamy with excellent drainage. Use native plant fertiliser with low phosphorus.
Tip: Compared to Grevilleas, which often turn yellow from iron deficiency, Hakeas suffer more from water stress and pH imbalance.
Fact: CSIRO recommends between 5.5 and 7 soil pH for most Western Australian natives, including Hakea laurina.
Click here to get a step-by-step Hakea Laurina growing guide or Australia 2025
2. Root Rot is a common Hakea Laurina problem 🌧️
Overwatering or clay-heavy soils can cause root rot. Roots become blackened, and plants may collapse.
Fix: Raise garden beds or use mounds. Add coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Tip: Plant in autumn for root development before summer.
Resource: For drainage tips, refer to the Australian Native Plants Society Soil Preparation Guide.
3. Hakea Laurina Not Flowering 🌸
Lack of flowers? Your plant may be too young, in the shade, or pruned incorrectly.
Fix: Provide 6–8 hours of sun and prune only after flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers.
Comparison: Bottlebrush (Callistemon) is more forgiving and blooms even in semi-shade, while Hakea laurina needs full sun to flower.
4. Scale Insects & Sap-Sucking Pests 🐛
Sticky leaves and black sooty mould are signs of sap-sucking pests like scale.
Fix: Use horticultural oil or neem oil. Wipe leaves with soapy water for light infestations.
Tip: Regularly inspect under leaves and stems.
Resource: Visit the RSPCA’s Garden Safety Page to check if pest treatments are pet-safe.
5. Fungal Diseases 🍂
Black spots or fuzzy mould may indicate fungal infections.
Fix: Improve air circulation and avoid watering foliage. Prune diseased parts and dispose of them safely.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd Hakeas; spacing encourages airflow.
Comparison: Banksias are more susceptible to Phytophthora dieback than Hakea laurina.
6. Environmental Stress 😓
Heatwaves, frost, or strong winds can damage foliage and flowers.
Fix: Mulch well to regulate soil temperature and moisture. Use shade cloth or fleece for young plants.
Fact: According to CSIRO, many WA natives adapt to drought but still require protection in extreme weather.
7. Nutrient Deficiency
Using general-purpose fertilisers can harm Hakea laurina.
Fix: Use a native-specific fertiliser that’s low in phosphorus. Apply only twice a year.
Tip: Unlike Grevilleas or Banksias, Hakeas are more sensitive to phosphorus and prefer slow-release formulas.
Understanding common Hakea Laurina problems helps gardeners create a more resilient and thriving native garden.
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FAQs to Common Hakea Laurina Problems
Why are my Hakea laurina leaves turning yellow?
Overwatering, poor soil drainage, or alkaline pH levels are the usual causes.
Can I use compost for Hakea laurina?
Only in small amounts—avoid mushroom compost or anything lime-rich.
How long does it take for Hakea laurina to flower?
Usually 2–3 years from planting, longer if grown from seed.
Are scale insects harmful to pets?
No, but the chemicals used to treat them can be—check RSPCA guidelines.
Is Hakea laurina better than Grevillea for small gardens?
Yes, it’s compact and non-invasive with less aggressive root systems.
What’s the ideal planting time?
Early autumn to mid-spring is best for root establishment.
Which native plant is most drought-tolerant?
Hakea laurina and Banksia spinulosa are both very hardy once established
Supporting Resources
- CSIRO: Drought adaptation in Australian flora
- RSPCA: Pet-Safe Gardening
- Australian Native Plants Society (ANPSA): Soil preparation & planting guides
