Family: Proteaceae
Author: L.f.
Bibliography: Suppl. Pl.: 127 (1782)
Year: 1782
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Banksia
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. New South Wales
Description
Heath banksia, known scientifically as Banksia ericifolia, is an iconic species within the Proteaceae family. First described by the botanist Carolus Linnaeus the Younger in the supplementary volume of his father’s seminal work Species Plantarum in 1782, this distinguished Australian native plant has earned admiration for its robust adaptability and impressive floral displays.
Endemic to Eastern New South Wales, Heath banksia thrives in the diverse landscapes of this region, ranging from coastal heathlands to elevated sandstone ridges. Its capacity to flourish in these varied environments underscores its resilience and ecological versatility.
The plant is characterized by its narrow, needle-like leaves, reminiscent of heather (hence the common name ‘heath banksia’), which create a dense and striking foliage. The flower spikes are the hallmark of Banksia ericifolia, forming cylindrical, bottlebrush-like structures that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. These vibrant inflorescences, which typically display hues of orange, gold, and red, not only enhance the visual appeal of the landscapes but also serve as a crucial nectar source for a plethora of native wildlife, including birds, bees, and small mammals.
Banksia ericifolia plays a vital ecological role in its native habitat, contributing significantly to the local ecosystem. Its flowers attract pollinators, facilitating cross-pollination and ensuring the propagation of the species. Additionally, the plant is known for its fire-adaptive traits, with seeds that are both heat and smoke responsive, enabling it to regenerate robustly following bushfire events. This resilience to fire is a critical evolutionary adaptation in the fire-prone regions of Australia.
The cultivation of Heath banksia extends beyond its natural habitat, with gardeners and horticulturists around the world establishing it in gardens for its aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. It requires well-drained soils and can tolerate relatively poor nutrient conditions, making it a hardy addition to various garden settings.
In summary, Banksia ericifolia is a remarkable species that embodies the beauty and resilience of the Australian flora. Its striking floral displays, ecological importance, and adaptability make it a treasured plant both in the wild and in managed landscapes.
Common Names
Eng: heath banksia, heath-leaf banksia
En: Heath banksia, Heath-leaf banksia
Synonyms
- Banksia phylicifolia (Salisb.)
- Sirmuellera ericifolia ((L.f.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 23, 2020 by DustyRose (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2021 by glyn bickford (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 9, 2019 by Jess Rouse (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2022 by Julia LYNCH (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 30, 2020 by Eduardo Ramirez (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 27, 2021 by Maryse M (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 23, 2020 by DustyRose (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2022 by Skyler (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Paige Macgregor (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2021 by glyn bickford (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 5, 2022 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 22, 2021 by Georg Dean (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2021 by glyn bickford (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jun 5, 2022 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 9, 2022 by Max Toulouse (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7124454)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:703098-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Banksia ericifolia L.f.)