- Mature height
- 2m to 12m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 3m to 4m
Banksia marginata carries upright golden-yellow flower spikes almost year round against silver-backed foliage, and is one of the most reliable nectar sources available for honeyeaters and native pollinators. The Silver Banksia is a genuine habitat tree that also works ornamentally.
Banksia marginata is highly variable in size depending on provenance and conditions, forming anything from a 2 metre shrub in exposed coastal sites to a 12 metre tree in sheltered positions, spreading 3 to 4 metres wide at 30 to 50 centimetres per year. It suits rural windbreaks, revegetation and garden feature planting alike.
This Australian native is frost hardy, surviving heavy and frequent frost without damage, and tolerates poor sandy soils and extended dry once established. It performs in full sun from subtropical Queensland through New South Wales and Victoria to Adelaide with essentially no maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Banksia marginata
How tall does Banksia marginata grow?
Banksia marginata is highly variable. In exposed coastal or windy sites it stays a 2 to 4 metre shrub, while in sheltered inland positions it can reach 12 metres. Mature width is generally 3 to 4 metres.
When does Silver Banksia flower?
Banksia marginata flowers close to year round, with the heaviest flush through autumn and winter. The upright golden-yellow spikes are a key nectar source when little else is flowering.
Does Banksia marginata attract birds?
Yes. The flower spikes are heavily worked by honeyeaters, lorikeets and native bees, and the dense branching provides shelter and nesting habitat for small birds.
Is Banksia marginata frost hardy?
Yes. It is frost hardy and survives heavy and frequent frost without damage, which suits it to inland tablelands and alpine-fringe districts as well as coastal sites.
How fast does Silver Banksia grow?
It grows at a moderate 30 to 50 centimetres per year. Growth is faster in good soil with reliable moisture and slower in the exposed sandy sites where it is often planted.
What soil does Banksia marginata need?
It prefers free-draining sandy or loam soils and is intolerant of waterlogging. Avoid high-phosphorus fertilisers, which damage banksias and other Proteaceae.
How far apart should I plant Banksia marginata?
Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen or windbreak, 3 to 4 metres apart as feature trees, or 3 metres apart for an avenue.