A character filled small to medium sized tree with leathery serrated leaves and creamy yellow to brown large flowers in summer. The flowers are followed by interesting pods , and the bark is lumpy and bumpy, both of which helped inspire May Gibbs Big Bad Banksia man. It naturally occurs on the east coast of Australia from southern Queensland to Victoria, plus northern Tasmania. Specimens can slowly grow to up to 15 metres, though usually will be smaller, and there are some low growing varieties. Best in sandy soils. Great for coastal gardens as it withstands salty winds. Banksias are phosphorus sensitive, so a good native fertiliser is best when it comes to feeding time. A good plant for attracting nectar loving birds and other wildlife, and black cockatoos like feeding on the developing cones.
Banksia serrata – Old Man Banksia
Plant Information
Plant Type - Small tree, Large shrub
Common Name - Banksia
Scientific Name - Banksia serrata
Family - Proteaceae
Cultivar Name -
Other Common Name -
Minimum Height - 3
Maximum Height - 15
Minimum Width - 2
Maximum Width - 4
Flower Colour - Cream, Yellow, Brown
Flowering Time - Spring, Summer
pH Level - Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Type - Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Saline, Poor soil
Plant Environment - Low maintenance garden, Flower garden, Coastal garden, Drought resistant
Climate Zone - Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean
Light -
Growth Habit -
Life Span - Perennial
Soil Moisture - Dry, Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage
Propagation Method - Seed
Frost Tolerance - Tolerates light frost
Plant Usage - Feature plant, Screen, Windbreak
Special Uses - Cut flower, Bonsai, Decorative fruit, Honey producing plant
Attracts Wildlife - Bees, Nectar eating birds, Seed eating birds, Butterflies, Other insects
Angus Cultivar -