A WA banksia with zigzag pinkish new growth and large acorn-shaped flower spikes in shades of pink, red and gold. A striking bird-attracting feature and cut flower.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 8 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Firewood Banksia
Botanically, Banksia menziesii is a tree in the Proteaceae family, native to Western Australia. It reaches around 8 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink, orange and yellow flowers appear in autumn and winter.
Where to grow Firewood Banksia
Firewood Banksia suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and arid and semi-arid 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
Firewood Banksia does best in sandy, free-draining and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Firewood 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 Firewood Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Firewood Banksia in the garden
Firewood Banksia earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and cut flowers for the vase.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Firewood Banksia with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Firewood Banksia
Plant Sale lists Firewood 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 it lands.