A WA banksia prized for its squat, brilliant scarlet-and-grey flower spikes held above grey-green toothed leaves. One of the finest native cut flowers.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Scarlet Banksia
Banksia coccinea is a shrub in the Proteaceae family, native to Western Australia. It reaches around 4 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and orange flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Scarlet Banksia
Scarlet Banksia suits Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Scarlet Banksia does best in sandy, free-draining and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Scarlet Banksia is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser — the Proteaceae are especially phosphorus-sensitive. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Scarlet Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Scarlet Banksia in the garden
Scarlet Banksia earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, a feature or specimen planting and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Scarlet Banksia with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Scarlet Banksia
Plant Sale lists Scarlet Banksia as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.