Banksia integrifolia

Description:
Banksia integrifolia, commonly known as the Coast Banksia, is a hardy, evergreen tree renowned for its cylindrical, yellow flower spikes and distinctive foliage. Native to Australia, it is well-suited to coastal and inland areas, tolerating salt spray, wind, and various soil conditions. This versatile tree is ideal as a specimen plant, windbreak, or screen, and provides habitat and food for native wildlife.

Flowers:
From late summer through winter, Banksia integrifolia produces long, upright flower spikes in shades of pale yellow. These flowers are rich in nectar, attracting birds, bees, and other pollinators, and add striking color to the garden during cooler months.

Foliage:
The tree features tough, dark green leaves with a distinctive, glossy upper surface and a silvery underside. The leaves are narrow and slightly serrated, creating a textured and attractive canopy that contrasts beautifully with the yellow blooms.

Fruit:
After flowering, Banksia integrifolia forms woody seed pods that remain on the tree. These cone-like structures add additional interest and provide a food source for native wildlife, particularly cockatoos.

Form and Size:
Coast Banksia has a variable growth habit, reaching heights of 5 to 15 meters, with a similar spread, depending on growing conditions. It can be pruned to maintain a shrub-like form or allowed to grow into a tall, open tree, making it adaptable to different landscape designs.

Growing Conditions:
This plant thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils, provided they are well-draining. It is highly tolerant of coastal exposure and frost, making it suitable for a range of climates and challenging sites.

Uses:
Banksia integrifolia is versatile in landscaping, serving as an excellent windbreak, screen, or specimen tree. Its ability to attract birds and pollinators makes it valuable for wildlife gardens, while its dense foliage and adaptability make it ideal for erosion control on coastal dunes.

Maintenance:
This tree is low-maintenance and requires minimal pruning. Light pruning can be done to shape the tree or control its size. Fertilize annually with a native-friendly, low-phosphorus fertilizer, and apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Notes:
Coast Banksia is an iconic Australian native that adapts well to a variety of environments. Its resilience to harsh conditions and its ecological value make it a popular choice for both residential and public landscapes.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other Australian natives such as Grevillea, Callistemon, and Westringia. It also complements ground covers like Lomandra and low-growing Correa varieties.

Common Name: Coast Banksia
Botanical Name: Banksia integrifolia
Family: Proteaceae
Origin: Eastern Australia

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