Description
Banksia prionotes seeds can benefit from Seed Smoke Primer, which is also available in our shop. Make sure to take a look!
Banksia prionotes, commonly known as the acorn banksia or orange banksia, is a species of shrub or tree native to the southwestern region of Western Australia. It belongs to the large and diverse Banksia genus in the Proteaceae family. The plant is highly valued for its striking flower spikes and is a popular choice for gardens and the cut flower industry.
The plant’s common name, acorn banksia, is derived from the appearance of its flower spikes before they fully open, which resemble a large acorn. These impressive cylindrical spikes, up to 15 cm long, initially appear creamy-white due to a covering of fine hairs. As they open, they reveal a brilliant orange-yellow color, providing a dramatic contrast and making the plant a beacon for nectar-feeding birds. The leaves are long, narrow, and deeply serrated. Banksia prionotes is a “reseeder” that is typically killed by fire but relies on its seeds, stored in woody follicles, to regenerate the population after a fire event. It is well-adapted to the sandy, well-draining, and nutrient-poor soils of its native habitat.