Banksia ericifolia aka Heath Banksia

Banksia ericifolia is an evergreen shrub in the Proteaceae family. It comes from eastern New South Wales in Australia. Its native climate is subtropical. Kew records its form as either a shrub or tree. In gardens, it grows into a bushy shrub. It keeps its dark green leaves through the year.

The leaves are narrow and shaped like needles. This fine foliage contrasts with the large, thick flower spikes. Each spike forms an upright cylinder with a bottlebrush shape. The flowers range from rusty orange to red. They appear in autumn and winter. Spikes can reach about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] tall. The RHS gives a garden height of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its spread reaches about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Growth is fast, with maturity reached in five to ten years.

Grow this banksia in full sun and freely draining soil. Both sandy soil and loam suit it. The soil should be acid or neutral. Choose a sheltered site with a south-facing or west-facing aspect. It tolerates drought and can cope with light frost. The RHS rates its hardiness as H3. This suits coastal and mild parts of the United Kingdom. It is not a plant for harsh winter conditions. Good drainage remains a key part of its growing needs.

In colder areas, the RHS also describes growing it under glass. Give it full light and good air flow there. Use equal parts peat-free loam-based compost, grit, and peat substitute. During growth, apply a phosphate-free feed once a month. Use it at half the stated strength. New plants can come from seed or semi-ripe cuttings. Its size needs thought when choosing a long-term planting site. Allow room for both its height and bushy spread.

The RHS lists it for coastal gardens and Mediterranean-style planting. It also suits gravel gardens, rock gardens, banks, and slopes. Other listed settings include wall-side borders, patios, and containers. Its evergreen foliage gives these plantings a lasting leafy form. The large flower spikes add colour in autumn and winter. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. The supplied species evidence does not establish food uses or toxicity. It also gives no species-specific details about bark or fruit.