Banksia robur

Description:
Banksia robur, commonly known as Swamp Banksia, is a striking and hardy Australian native shrub that thrives in moist environments. It is recognized for its large, leathery leaves and distinctive cylindrical flower spikes that change color as they age. This versatile shrub is ideal for wetland or coastal gardens, providing habitat for wildlife and adding a unique architectural element to the landscape. It is well-suited for gardens that require a resilient and water-loving plant.

Flowers:
The flower spikes of Banksia robur are large and cylindrical, typically 12–20 cm in length. The blooms start out as a greenish-blue, maturing to shades of golden-yellow or brown. Flowering occurs primarily in spring and summer, and the flowers are rich in nectar, attracting birds, bees, and other pollinators. The changing colors of the flower spikes provide seasonal interest in the garden.

Foliage:
The leaves are large, oblong, and leathery, with a serrated edge. They are dark green on the upper surface and silvery underneath, creating a striking contrast. The robust foliage forms a dense canopy, making the shrub an excellent choice for providing shelter for wildlife.

Fruit:
After flowering, woody cones form, containing seeds. These cones can remain on the plant for years, gradually releasing seeds. While the cones are not particularly ornamental, they add an interesting structural element to the shrub.

Form and Size:
Banksia robur is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows to around 1.5–2.5 meters in height and 2–3 meters in width. It has a broad, bushy form, which makes it suitable for mass planting, as a feature shrub, or as a background plant in moist garden settings.

Growing Conditions:
Thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. Banksia robur is highly tolerant of wet conditions, making it ideal for gardens with poor drainage or swampy areas. It can also handle periods of drought once established. It is frost-tolerant and performs well in both coastal and inland environments.

Uses:
Banksia robur is perfect for wetland gardens, rain gardens, or areas with poor drainage where other plants may struggle. It is also an excellent addition to native or wildlife-attracting gardens due to its nectar-rich flowers. Its robust size and form make it a good choice for naturalistic or informal garden designs.

Maintenance:
Low-maintenance and hardy, Banksia robur requires minimal care once established. Light pruning after flowering will help maintain its shape and promote fresh growth. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture, and a low-phosphorus fertilizer designed for native plants can be applied in spring to encourage healthy growth.

Notes:
Banksia robur is well-suited to coastal gardens and wet environments, where it can handle salty winds and waterlogged soils. Its changing flower colors and robust form make it a visually appealing plant for a variety of landscapes.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other moisture-loving Australian natives like Melaleuca, Leptospermum, and Lomandra. Its bold foliage and striking flower spikes also contrast nicely with fine-textured plants like Juncus or other ornamental grasses.

Common Name: Swamp Banksia
Botanical Name: Banksia robur
Family: Proteaceae
Origin: Australia

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