Waratah

Telopea R.Br.

Family: Proteaceae

Pet & Human Safety

People: No hazard foundPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not stated by our sources (not a clearance). Detail: no human-hazard statement

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Not assessed for pets. Do not treat as pet-safe.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: Not checked yet
Light: ANBG: a semi-shaded position or at least shade from afternoon sun is desirable.
Water needs: moderate moderate is a plain-language reading of ANBG: water in hot or dry spells and never let the soil dry out completely, but over-watering in heavy soil causes waterlogging; the species page says waratahs need regular watering and roots should not stay too wet. Always finger-test two inches down.
Mature size: T. speciosissima only: generally about 3 m tall (ANBG), maximum 4 m (NSW National Parks).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon