Hi Daffnetters,
Thanks for the question replies.
Yes , they are the very beautiful and popular New South Wales [ Australian ] Waratah — Telopea speciosissima
The variety shown is a N Z selection Red Embers
Well done Steve Hampson from Southern California.
They would probably do well in free draining soil in your area.
Pleased that the Hawera connection was noted.
Hawera 5Y Y is possibly the best known and grown N Z daffodil overseas.
Dr W M Thomson was , I understand , the local Doctor in Hawera in the 1920,s 30,s and obviously a daff enthusiast and hybridist.
Hawera is also the nearest large town to another great hybridist — Spud Brogden –continuing the tradition
John