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coast banksia
Scientific Name: Banksia integrifolia
Family: Proteaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Coast Banksia (Banksia integrifolia)
Banksia integrifolia, commonly known as coast banksia, is a versatile plant found along the east coast of Australia. It is also known as Honeysuckle Oak, White Honeysuckle, White Bottlebrush, White Banksia, or simply Honeysuckle.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces nectar, which can be extracted from the cones.
- The text mentions "conelike fruit with winged seeds." These parts may be a potential choking hazard for pets if ingested.
Considerations for Children
- The plant produces nectar, which can be extracted from the cones.
- The text mentions "conelike fruit with winged seeds." These parts may be a potential choking hazard for children if ingested.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Banksia integrifolia L. f.
- Family: Proteaceae (Protea family)
- Genus: Banksia
- Species: integrifolia
- Synonyms/Common Names: Coast Banksia, Honeysuckle Oak, White Honeysuckle, White Bottlebrush, White Banksia, Honeysuckle, or Coastal Banksia
- Subspecies: Three subspecies have been recognised.
- Name Origin: Banksia is named after the wife of naturalist Sir Joseph Banks.
Distribution and Habitat
- Banksia integrifolia is widely distributed along the coast and adjacent hills of eastern Australia, from Melbourne to northern Queensland.
- It thrives in sandy coastal areas and exposed coastal habitats.
Morphology and Growth Habits
- Banksia integrifolia is an evergreen tree or large shrub.
- It typically grows to 10-16 meters tall, but often does not exceed 5 meters in exposed coastal situations. Some varieties can reach 25 meters in height.
- The trunk is frequently twisted.
- Mature leaves have smooth edges, but some forms exhibit wavy leaf edges. Young plants have serrated leaves.
- It features heads of pale yellow flowers.
- The bark is rough and grey.
- Leaves are long, green with a silver underside.
Ecological Role
- Coast banksia is an important part of the flora of Australia's eastern coast.
- It is an excellent bird food source, providing nectar-rich flowers.
- In some areas, such as Wilsons Promontory National Park, it faces threats from invasive species like Coastal Tea Trees.
Quirky Facts
- Banksia cones can be soaked in water to extract the nectar and make a sweet drink.
Additional Information
- Banksia integrifolia is hardy to zone (UK) 9 and is frost tender.
- It is tolerant of salt spray and wind.
External Resources
- Encyclopedia of Life: Provides scientific articles and information about Banksia integrifolia.
- Dave's Garden: A community website where gardeners share tips and ideas.