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Description
Grevillea Banksii, also known as the Red Silky Oak, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Proteaceae family. It is native to eastern Australia and can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant is known for its attractive, bright red flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. The flower spikes can grow up to 15 centimeters long and are covered in silky hairs, which give them a soft, delicate appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Grevillea |
Appearance
The leaves of the Grevillea Banksii are dark green and have a fern-like appearance. They are about 10-20 centimeters long and 2-4 centimeters wide. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant. They are bright red and have long, narrow petals that are covered in silky hairs. The flower spikes bloom in late winter and early spring and attract nectar-feeding birds such as honeyeaters.
Care Guide
Grevillea Banksii is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Soil: Grevillea Banksii prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant may suffer from iron deficiency.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Grevillea Banksii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Grevillea Banksii is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. In addition, the plant may suffer from iron deficiency if grown in alkaline soil. If you notice yellowing leaves, you may need to apply a chelated iron supplement to the soil.
Habitat
Grevillea Banksii is native to eastern Australia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including open forests, woodlands, and heathlands. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate some frost.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Grevillea Banksii grow in pots?
A: Yes, Grevillea Banksii can be grown in pots, but make sure the pot has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I prune Grevillea Banksii?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to promote bushier growth. Remove any dead or diseased wood as needed.
Q: How tall can Grevillea Banksii grow?
A: Grevillea Banksii can grow up to 6 meters tall, but it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Q: Does Grevillea Banksii attract birds?
A: Yes, the bright red flowers of Grevillea Banksii attract nectar-feeding birds such as honeyeaters.
Related Plants
- Grevillea Robusta
- Grevillea Superb
- Grevillea Lanigera
- Grevillea Longifolia
References
- “Grevillea banksii.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 3 September 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp8/grevillea-banksii.html
- “Grevillea banksii.” PlantNet. Accessed 3 September 2021. http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Grevillea~banksii
- “Grevillea banksii.” Gardening Australia. Accessed 3 September 2021. https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/grevillea-banksii/9420404
