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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Scarlet Banksia handles dry conditions well once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser — the Proteaceae are especially phosphorus-sensitive. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Scarlet Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate as Scarlet Banksia. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. 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. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
