BANKSIA AEMULA


'''Banksia aemula''', previously known in New South Wales as ''Banksia serratifolia'', is closely related to ''Banksia serrata''. In fact it derives its specific name, ''aemula'' from the latin for 'similar', due to its similarity to ''B. serrata''. it is found from Bundaberg south down to Sydney on the Australian east coast.

Contents
Description
Cultivation
Popular Culture
References
External links

Description


It is a lignotuberous shrub found in coastal heath on deep sandy soil, known as Wallum (except in western Sydney, where it is found in the Agnes Banks area 60 km inland from the coast). It is generally a gnarled shrub or small tree to 5 metres though usually smaller. It flowers in autumn, from March to June. It is very similar to ''Banksia serrata'' but can be distinguished by:

★ trunk often has an orange tinge, as opposed to grey.

★ adult leaves are narrower than 2 cm in diameter.

★ inflorescences are generally a brighter green-yellow in colour.

★ follicles, which can sometimes (but not always) be very large.

Cultivation


''Banksia aemula'', showing large follicles, Cranbourne Annexe, RBG Melbourne Oct 2003

In cultivation, though relatively resistant to dieback, it does require a well drained soil, preferably fairly sandy and a sunny aspect. Summer watering is also helpful. Note that the plant may take several years to flower. It is possibly more finicky than its close relative ''B. serrata''.

Popular Culture


Both this species and ''Banksia attenuata'' have been credited with the inspiration behind May Gibbs' Big Bad Banksia Men.

References



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★ 'Banksia', 'Flora of Australia' ISBN 0-643-06454-0

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External links



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