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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Little Eric Banksia is happy on low water, 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 Little Eric Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Little Eric Banksia with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate 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 Little Eric Banksia
Plant Sale lists Little Eric 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.