Banksia robur

swamp banksia
Open shrub. Branches hold very wide, lush leaves with serrated edges. Large tan to purple-red-brown flowers. Tolerates more water and heavier soil than most banksia.
Banksia roburBanksia roburBanksia robur
height 4–10ft
width 4–6ft
tolerates Drought, Moist Soil, Pots
water
needs		 Moderate
water
info		 Banksia are from mediterranean climates of Australia and adapt well to California, particularly along the coast. Once established they will grow and look their best with deep watering every other week to once a month during summer.

We have a friend who grows this plant in heavy clay in an area that has ground water (to the point that it weeps during the winter) in SSZ 16. The plant seems content to grow happily without additional water during winter, and only a deep once a month hand watering during summer.
hardy
to		 26F
exposure Part Sun – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Heavy Soil, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing Bloodmeal, Fish Emulsion, Low Needs, No Phosphorus
origin E Australia
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 14–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Chlorosus can be common with this plant (irregular yellowing of leaves due to a PH imbalance). Correct this by adding cottonseed meal or cheated iron.

Special Interest

This plant displays cauliflory, where flowers can emerge on the trunk instead of among the branches, often at the base. Just one more reason this lovely banksia!