A compact dwarf heath banksia with fine foliage and orange-gold flower spikes through autumn and winter. A neat, bird-attracting feature for small coastal gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Little Eric Banksia
Banksia ericifolia 'Little Eric' is a shrub in the Proteaceae family, native to New South Wales. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Orange flowers appear in autumn and winter.
Where to grow Little Eric Banksia
Little Eric Banksia suits warm-temperate and subtropical 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
Little Eric Banksia does best in free-draining and sandy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Little Eric Banksia performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser — the Proteaceae are especially phosphorus-sensitive. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Little Eric Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, it is low maintenance.
Using Little Eric Banksia in the garden
Little Eric Banksia earns its place for drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden, a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Little Eric Banksia sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to low water use and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Little Eric Banksia
Plant Sale lists Little Eric Banksia as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
