Banksia serrata – Old Man Banksia

A character filled small to medium sized tree with leathery serrated leaves and creamy yellow to brown large flowers in summer. The flowers are followed by interesting pods , and the bark is lumpy and bumpy, both of which helped inspire May Gibbs Big Bad Banksia man. It naturally occurs on the east coast of Australia from southern Queensland to Victoria, plus northern Tasmania. Specimens can slowly grow to up to 15 metres, though usually will be smaller, and there are some low growing varieties. Best in sandy soils. Great for coastal gardens as it withstands salty winds. Banksias are phosphorus sensitive, so a good native fertiliser is best when it comes to feeding time. A good plant for attracting nectar loving birds and other wildlife, and black cockatoos like feeding on the developing cones.

Family : Proteaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Small tree, Large shrub
Width : 4
Flowering Time : Spring, Summer
Soil Type : Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Saline, Poor soil
Climate Zone : Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean
Growth Habit :
Soil Moisture : Dry, Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage
Special Uses : Cut flower, Bonsai, Decorative fruit, Honey producing plant
Scientific Name: Banksia serrata
Common Name : Banksia
Height : 15
Flower Color : Cream, Yellow, Brown
pH Level : Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Flower garden, Coastal garden, Drought resistant
Light :
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost
Attracts Wildlife : Bees, Nectar eating birds, Seed eating birds, Butterflies, Other insects