The dynamic duo of banksias

Characteristics: The characteristics of these two banksias are very similar. Both are fairly dense, medium shrubs, with Banksia ‘Red Rover’ being perhaps slightly taller and reaching 2m x 1.5m. The flowers are terracotta/red in  colour and the leaves are a bright mid-green. Banksia ‘Golden Girl’ is marginally smaller growing to 1.5m – 1.8m(h) x 1.5m(w), with flowers that are golden yellow to 200mm x 120mm diameter. The leaves are slightly larger and blue-green in colour, 2mm x 15mm long. Both plants flower from April-September.

Cultural Notes: The plants grow best in well drained moist soils. They perform best positioned in a sunny site but will tolerate some shade. They respond well to a light pruning and are reasonably frost hardy.

Propagation: Cuttings can be taken from semi-firm new growth, although they can be difficult to strike.

Uses: Both plants can be included in a mass planting, blended with other shrubbery or planted as a feature plant. Banksias also attract nectar-feeding birds.

Label Names: 

Banksia ericifolia ‘Red Rover’ (ACRA 1345) and

Banksia ericifolia ‘Golden Girl’ (ACRA 1346)

Family:  Proteaceae

Origin: Seedling selections fromR. Parsons for flower colour.

Availability: Specialist native plant nurseries.

Paul Carmen

ACRA Registrar

Australian Cultivation

Registration Authority

E: acra@anbg.gov.au

Main photo: Banksia ericifolia ‘Golden Girl’