Banksia ericifolia

<em>Banksia</em> <em>ericifolia</em> John Fielding
Shrubs

A fast-growing, bushy evergreen shrub with needle-like dark green foliage and tall, thick, cylinder-shaped flower spikes of rusty-orange to red bottle-brush like flowers in autumn and winter. Flower spikes can grow up to 20cm tall

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Proteaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Banksia are evergreen shrubs and trees with leathery, often handsome, simple or pinnately lobed leaves and many small tubular flowers in dense spikes forming showy, cone-like heads, followed by woody fruiting clusters
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Outdoors, grow in free-draining, neutral to acid soil in full sun. Under glass grow in equal parts peat-free, loam-based potting compost, grit and peat substitute in full light with good ventilation. Apply half-strength, phosphate-free fertiliser once a month while in growth. Tolerates a light frost

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings or by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Banks and slopes
  • Wall side borders

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free