Banksia Serrata

Size: 100L
Sale price$555.00

Banksia serrata – Old Man Banksia is a tough, iconic Australian native tree or large shrub recognised for its rugged bark, serrated dark green leaves, and dramatic form. Growing 6–15 metres tall (often smaller in gardens), it features a gnarled trunk and irregular canopy, making it a striking choice for native and coastal landscapes.

Large grey-yellow flower spikes appear from late summer through winter, attracting nectar-feeding birds and insects. Banksia serrata – Old Man Banksia is exceptionally hardy, tolerating drought, poor soils, and salt spray. It thrives in full sun and well-drained sandy soils but adapts to a variety of conditions with minimal maintenance.

This evergreen species is ideal for feature planting, screening, or as a resilient focal point in low-maintenance and wildlife-friendly gardens. Occasional pruning maintains shape and health. Propagate from seed or firm cuttings.

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About This Tree

Botanical Profile

Explore the essential characteristics and growth habits of this plant, curated to assist you in making an inspired and confident choice for your landscape.

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height

Mature Width:

3m – 6m

Expected Growth Pear Year

Approx. 20 – 40 cm per year

Evergreen/ Deciduous

Evergreen (foliage year round)

Sunlight Tolerance
  • Full Sun
Form & Shape

Banksia Serrata is considered:

  • Upright
  • Rounded
  • Broad
  • Shrub
Australian Native?

Yes

Flowering Information

Flower Colour: Yellow

Flower Type:

  • Fluffy

Flowering Period

  • Summer
  • Autumn
Foliage Type / Shape
  • Linear
  • Serrated

As Featured In

Here Is What Customers Like You Frequently Ask

FAQ

Q: How quickly will my tree grow?
A: Growth rate varies by species and conditions, but on average, expect 30 to 60 cm per year for most common garden trees.

Q: When is the best time of year to plant my tree?
A: The best planting time is during the dormant season, in autumn after leaf drop or early spring before bud break.

Q: How much water does my tree need?
A: Newly planted trees require more water to establish roots—about 25 to 50 liters per week, depending on the weather. Once established, they need 15 to 25 liters per week during dry periods.

Q: Can I plant this tree close to my house?
A: It's recommended to plant large trees at least 10 meters away from buildings to prevent potential damage from roots or branches.

Q: How long will it take for my tree to flower or bear fruit?
A: Flowering and fruiting times can vary, but typically, trees may take 3 to 5 years to mature enough for this process.

About

Planting Guide

Plant Spacing

Hedging & Screening: 2 m – 3 m – Broad form makes for robust informal screening

Feature Tree: 3 m – 4 m – Gnarly bark and bold leaves suit a feature position

Avenue Planting Trees: 4 m – 5 m – Good in wide naturalistic avenue settings

How to Plant Banksia Serrata

Planting Your Tree:

  1. Select the Right Site: Choose a location that suits your tree’s sunlight and soil requirements. Ensure it is at least 5 meters away from structures and utility lines.
  2. Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole that's thrice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Loosen the soil around the hole and amend with compost if needed.
  3. Planting: Remove any containers or wrappings and gently place the tree in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface.
  4. Backfill: Fill the hole with a mixture of native soil and compost, if used, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
  5. Water Thoroughly: After planting, water the tree to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets, using about 50 liters of water.
  6. Mulching: Apply a 5-7 cm layer of mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth, keeping it away from the trunk to avoid rot.

Root Ball Dimensions (Width × Depth) For Planting

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

  • 30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
  • 40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
  • 50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
  • 100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
  • 150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
  • 200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
  • 300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
  • 400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
  • 1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
  • 2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

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