Banksia speciosa
Showy banksia, Ricrac banksiaFamily: Proteaceae
Origin: South coast of Western Australia
Banksia speciosa is an imposing shrub or small tree whose flowers are often commercially used in cut-flower arrangements. The linear leaves may reach 18 inches wide, and are divided into small, triangular lobes. They are green above and white underneath. The seeds are enclosed in large, woody follicles and are generally retained within the cone until burnt. The species is fire-sensitive, and rapidly grows from seed after bushfire. It grows on deep sand in shrubland in nature. It is a vigorous and quick growing shrub if given a well-drained sandy soil, dry summer climate and a sunny aspect. However it is extremely sensitive to rootrot which will kill it quickly. In humid climates, plants may grow quickly and appear to be doing well until they succumb to Phytophthora. Propagation is generally from seed.
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