Broadleaf Banksia

(Banksia robur)

Broadleaf Banksia (Banksia robur)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Banksia robur, commonly known as Broadleaf Banksia, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal swamps and sedge-rich, damp sandstone areas of Eastern Australia. It typically grows to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) but can reach larger sizes in cultivation. The plant features very large, leathery, tough green leaves with serrated margins, and new growth appears in vibrant shades of red, maroon, or brown with a dense felt-like covering of brown hairs. Broadleaf Banksia has a variable flowering period, with some populations blooming in spring and summer, while others flower mainly in autumn. The stunning large flower spikes are metallic green with pinkish styles in bud, maturing to cream-yellow and eventually fading to golden-brown. The old flowers turn grey and persist on old cones, hiding the small follicles.

Broadleaf Banksia is valued for its striking foliage and showy flower spikes, which make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens, native plantings, and as a feature shrub. It is also used for cut flowers due to the long-lasting and distinctive blooms. This Banksia thrives in wet areas and sandy soils, requiring a sunny location and additional watering during active growth and dry periods. While propagation from seed is reliable, it can also be propagated from cuttings. It is generally low-maintenance but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Green
  • Flowering Season: Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal swamps and sedge-rich, damp sandstone areas of Eastern Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Swamp Banksia, Broad-Leaved Banksia

Scientific Names: , Banksia robur, Banksia latifolia, Banksia fagifolia, Banksia dilleniifolia, Banksia longifolia, Banksia uncigera, Sirmuellera robur,

GBIF Accepted Name: Banksia robur Cav.