Banksia media, the southern plains banksia or golden stalk banksia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Proteaceae. An evergreen shrub, it occurs on the south coast of Western Australia between Albany and Israelite Bay, where it is a common plant. A many-branched bush with wedge-shaped serrated leaves and large golden-yellow flower spikes, known as inflorescences, it grows up to 10 metres (30 ft) high. These plants are killed by bushfire, and regenerate from seed. The flowers attract nectar- and insect-feeding birds, particularly honeyeaters, and a variety of insects. In cultivation, Banksia media grows well in a sunny location on well-drained soil in areas with dry summers. It is more resilient than most Western Australian banksias when cultivated in areas with humid summers.
Old man banksia is resistant to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Old man banksia is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive gardening experience.
How to keep Banksia Media.
Light
Old man banksia does best with abundant light. As a resident of environments with open access to sunlight, its growth and overall condition visibly improve in bright, sun-filled areas. Excessive or limited light typically does not bother it. Nonetheless, insufficient light can hinder its successful development.
Temperature
Old man banksia is native to temperate environments and does best in temperatures of 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). Seasonal temperature changes are typically not required unless conditions move substantially outside this range.
Fertilizer
Early spring, as an Old man banksia breaks dormancy, is the best time to fertilize. This supports overall growth and encourages flower development. Fertilization improves the foliage, stems, and branches, while encouraging large, vibrant, long-lasting flowers. It helps transfer nutrients from the roots to the blooms and enhances the plant’s health and disease resistance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree, Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Banksia
- Family
- Proteaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 15.85 m
- Mature Spread
- 6.1 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red, Brown
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 8.89 cm to 11.43 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late winter, Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
