A low, spreading dwarf form of the hairpin banksia forming a dense mound studded with gold-and-black flower spikes through the cooler months. A compact bird-attracting groundcover shrub.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Cushion Banksia
Banksia spinulosa 'Cushion' is a shrub in the Proteaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow and orange flowers appear in autumn and winter.
Where to grow Cushion Banksia
Cushion Banksia suits warm-temperate, subtropical and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning 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
Cushion 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
Cushion 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 Cushion Banksia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Cushion Banksia in the garden
Cushion Banksia earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden. 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 Cushion 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 Cushion Banksia
Plant Sale lists Cushion 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.