- Mature height
- 6m to 15m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 3m to 10m
Banksia integrifolia, the Coast Banksia, is one of Australia's toughest and most versatile native trees. Silvery-green foliage and bold golden cylindrical flower spikes from late summer through winter make it a striking feature, while its exceptional tolerance of salt, wind, and poor soils makes it a reliable performer where many trees fail.
Coast Banksia grows to 8-15 metres tall and 4-6 metres wide with an upright spreading canopy. The fast growth and hardy nature suit coastal screens, windbreaks, habitat plantings, and feature use across both coastal and inland gardens. The golden flower spikes are a major nectar source for honeyeaters, lorikeets, and native bees through the cooler months.
Coast Banksia is highly drought tolerant once established and thrives along the east coast from QLD to VIC, performing best in coastal sites, sandy soils, and full sun. It also grows well inland in well-drained conditions, and is low maintenance once established.
Coast Banksia or Sentinel? The standard Coast Banksia grows 8-15m with a broad spreading canopy, suited to larger gardens, coastal screens, and feature use in spacious settings. Its compact cultivar Sentinel reaches just 4-6m with a narrow upright form, ideal for small gardens, narrow planting strips, and modern landscapes. Both share the same silver foliage and golden flower spikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia
How tall does Coast Banksia grow?
Coast Banksia grows to 8-15 metres tall with a spreading canopy 4-6 metres wide.
How fast does Coast Banksia grow?
Coast Banksia is fast-growing, adding 60cm to 1 metre per year once established in well-drained soil.
Is Coast Banksia suitable for coastal gardens?
Yes. Banksia integrifolia is one of Australia's most coastal-tolerant native trees, handling salt spray, sandy soils, and strong winds with ease.
Does Coast Banksia attract birds?
Yes. The golden cylindrical flower spikes are a major nectar source for native honeyeaters, lorikeets, rainbow bees and pollinators through autumn and winter.
Is Coast Banksia drought tolerant?
Yes. Coast Banksia is highly drought tolerant once established and prefers well-drained soils with minimal supplementary water.
Where does Coast Banksia grow best in Australia?
Coast Banksia thrives along the east coast from QLD to VIC, performing best in coastal sites, sandy soils, and full sun positions. It also grows well inland in well-drained conditions.
What is the difference between Coast Banksia and 'Sentinel'?
Standard Coast Banksia grows 8-15m with a broad spreading canopy. 'Sentinel' is a compact upright cultivar reaching just 4-6m, better suited to small gardens, narrow planting strips, and feature use.