🌾Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia) – Evergreen Native Tree with Golden Flower Spikes
🌿 Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia with Glossy Leaves and Golden Flower Spikes Banksia integrifolia, commonly known as the Coast Banksia, is a versatile and widely adaptable Australian native tree or large shrub admired for its resilience, glossy foliage, and classic cylindrical flower spikes. Its blooms appear in soft pale yellow to golden tones and are rich in nectar, providing both ornamental beauty and ecological value. The foliage is distinctive, with dark green, smooth upper surfaces and silvery undersides that shimmer in the light and coastal breezes. Highly tolerant of wind, salt spray, and varied soil types, Banksia integrifolia is an excellent choice for /collections/water-wise-plantswater‑wise landscapes, coastal plantings, and urban environments where durability and visual appeal are equally important. Botanical Characteristics of Banksia integrifolia Characteristic Detail Scientific Name Banksia integrifolia Common Name Coast Banksia Growth Habit Upright evergreen shrub or medium-sized tree Foliage Glossy dark green leaves with silvery undersides Flowers / Cones Pale yellow to golden cylindrical flower spikes, followed by woody seed cones Flowering Season Late summer through winter (varies by climate) Special Features Highly adaptable, coastal tolerant, durable landscape performer Mature Size and Form • Height: 15–40 ft • Spread: 10–25 ft Banksia integrifolia can develop into a broad, spreading tree or remain as a large shrub depending on conditions and pruning. Its strong structure and tolerance to shaping make it suitable for screening, windbreaks, or as a feature tree in /collections/australian-native-plantsAustralian native landscapes. USDA Hardiness Zones Zones 9–11 This species performs best in mild climates and is particularly well suited to coastal regions due to its tolerance of salt, wind, and sandy soils. Cultivation and Care for Banksia integrifolia Aspect Care Instructions Sunlight Full sun to light shade Soil Well‑drained soils; highly adaptable including sandy and coastal soils Water Moderate when establishing; drought tolerant once established Fertilizer Apply low‑phosphorus native plant fertilizer sparingly Pruning Responds well to pruning; shape as shrub or small tree as desired Landscape Use and Benefits of Banksia integrifolia • Ideal for coastal gardens due to wind and salt tolerance • Excellent feature tree or large screening shrub • Suitable for /collections/water-wise-plantswater‑wise landscaping • Provides year‑round structure with attractive foliage contrast • Versatile in both formal and naturalistic /collections/australian-native-plantsAustralian native plantings Wildlife Attraction The nectar‑rich flowers attract birds, bees, and pollinators, making Banksia integrifolia a key species for supporting biodiversity in garden environments. Pest and Disease Considerations Banksia integrifolia is generally robust and adaptable when grown in suitable conditions. Potential concerns include: • Root rot in poorly drained soils • Sensitivity to high‑phosphorus fertilizers • Occasional leaf stress in overly humid or poorly ventilated settings Providing adequate drainage, appropriate watering, and full sun to partial shade will ensure long‑term health and performance.