Banksia Aquilonia
Contents
Description
Banksia Aquilonia is a species of flowering plant in the family Proteaceae. It is native to the south-west of Western Australia and is commonly known as the northern banksia. It is a small shrub that typically grows up to 2 meters high and 1.5 meters wide. The leaves of the plant are narrow and oblong, with a length of 8-20 centimeters and a width of 1-2 centimeters. The flowers of Banksia Aquilonia are yellow or green-yellow, and they bloom in winter and spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Banksia |
| Species | Banksia Aquilonia |
Appearance
Banksia Aquilonia is a small shrub that has narrow and oblong leaves. The leaves are a dark green color on the upper surface and a lighter green color on the lower surface. The flowers of Banksia Aquilonia are yellow or green-yellow, and they are cylindrical in shape. The flower spikes can range from 3 to 5 centimeters long and 2 to 3 centimeters wide. The seed pods of the plant are woody and cone-shaped, and they can reach up to 5 centimeters long and 4 centimeters wide.
Care Guide
Banksia Aquilonia requires a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It prefers full sun exposure and needs to be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. The plant is not frost tolerant, and it is best suited for hardiness zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Prune the plant to maintain its shape, and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Banksia Aquilonia is susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Spider mites and scale insects can also be a problem for Banksia Aquilonia.
Habitat
Banksia Aquilonia is native to the south-west of Western Australia, where it grows in sandy soils and rocky outcrops. The plant is found in heathlands and open woodlands, and it is often associated with other banksia species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Banksia Aquilonia a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, Banksia Aquilonia requires regular watering, especially during the summer months.
Q: Can Banksia Aquilonia grow in a container?
A: Yes, Banksia Aquilonia can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and regular fertilization.
Q: What is the best time to prune Banksia Aquilonia?
A: Prune Banksia Aquilonia in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should Banksia Aquilonia be fertilized?
A: Banksia Aquilonia should be fertilized once per year during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
Related Plants
- Banksia baxteri
- Banksia caleyi
- Banksia canei
- Banksia coccinea
- Banksia conferta
References
- “Banksia aquilonia A.S.George”. Australian Plant Name Index (APNI), IBIS database. Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Australian Government.
- “Banksia aquilonia”. FloraBase. Western Australian Government Department of Parks and Wildlife.
- George, A.S. (1981). “The genus Banksia L.f. (Proteaceae)”. Nuytsia. 3 (3): 239–473.
