Banksia is reputed to be the first plant collected at what is now Botany Bay. Named after Sir Joseph Banks, the 18th century botanist, banksias are members of the family proteaceae which contains many nectar-rich species.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Some flowering banksia spikes, commonly known as the ‘honeysuckles’ were soaked in large wooden bowls of water by Aborigines who drank the sweetened liquid or sucked the nectar directly from the flowers.
An Australian native genus of about 70 species, banksias are distributed widely throughout the continent with the majority occurring close to the coast on sandy or rocky (well-drained) soils. With their evergreen leathery leaves, erect cylindrical flower spikes and hard woody fruits, few plants carry such a popular image of Australian flora as the banksia.
Gardeners with heavy soil will need to amend it with the addition of gypsum or other soil conditioners before planting. Raising the height of the growing area to at least 30-60cm above the natural soil level will also improve the growing conditions as well as providing the necessary good drainage.
Coarse sand, gravel or screenings are considered a beter alternative to pinebark and woodchips, which could retain too much moisture.
Young banksias will generally need watering for the first 12-18 months until they develop a sturdy root system. However, better to soak thoroughly once a fortnight to encourage deep rooting rather than give a light hosing every few days.
Fertiliser requirements are minimal and as most native plants are sensitive to excessive phosphorus it is best to use native plant formulas with a low phosphorus ratio.
Hybrids of banksia ericifolia in the form of ‘Birthday Candles’ produce dwarf plants highly suited to container growing in small gardens while taller and even more spectacular is ‘Giant Candles’, with bright orange spikes that can grow to as much as 40cm.
Yet another delightful, ornamental garden gem is the Possum banksia (b.bauri) which seldom grows taller than 75cm. It withstands extended dry periods as well as frost once established. The large woolly flower heads of brownish grey appear in spring and retain their good looks long after the colour has disappeared.