Grevillea synapheae

It is a prostrate to erect shrub that has a lignotuber and which usually grows to between 0.2 and 1.5 m (7.9 in and 4 ft 11.1 in) in height and has a peak flowering period between July and October (mid-winter to mid-spring) in its native range.[2] The cream or white flowers are produced in axillary or terminal racemes.[3] It has prickly[4] evergreen foliage.[5]

The species was first formally described by botanist Robert Brown in 1830 in Supplementum primum prodromi florae.[1][3][6] It is closely related to Grevillea trifida, Grevillea muelleri and Grevillea prominens.[3]

Several subspecies have been identified as follows:[1]

• G. synapheae subsp. Mt Misery (S.D.Hopper 6333), also known as "Mt Misery form"
• G. synapheae subsp. latiloba (Meisn.) Makinson, also known as the "Mogumber" or "broad-leaved" form
• G. synapheae subsp. minyulo Makinson, also known as "Minyollo form" or "Minyollo variant"
• G. synapheae R.Br. subsp. synapheae

The shrub is found in the Mid West, Wheatbelt and Peel regions of Western Australia from around Three Springs in the north down to around Waroona in the south. It is commonly situated on rises in low heathland communities growing in sandy, loamy or gravelly soils over and around granite and laterite.[2]

The shrub is sold commercially[4] and is recommended for use as a low ornamental shrub that is suitable for wide verges, median strips, open locations as well as reserves and parks. When planted is numbers it makes low hedge or barrier or groundcover. It can tolerate drought and a medium frost and soils with a high lime content. It does require well drained soil and part shade to full sun. The plant is a good bird attractor which is used for food and habitat. It can cause skin irritations.[5]