Banksia occidentalis

Common Name:
Red swamp banksia

Description:
Banksia occidentalis is an attractive Western Australian native shrub or small tree valued for its striking cylindrical flower spikes in rich red tones and its adaptability to a range of garden conditions. Flowering primarily from autumn through winter and into early spring, it provides valuable colour during the cooler months when many other plants are dormant. The blooms are highly attractive to birds and pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. It has a naturally upright to slightly spreading habit with narrow, serrated green foliage that adds texture year-round. In Melbourne, it performs best in a sunny position with well-drained soil and benefits from protection from heavy frost and overly wet conditions. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance and is well suited to native gardens, feature planting, and informal screening.

Form:
• Shrub - Large
• Tree - Small

Mature Size:
• Height: 3–6 m
• Width: 2–4 m

Aspect:
• Full Sun

Flowering:
• Flowers in Autumn
• Flowers in Winter
• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:
• Deep red
• Burgundy red

Key Attributes:
• Australian native
• Bird Attracting
• Bee Attracting
• Perennial
• Drought tolerant once established
• Suitable for Screening
• Suitable for Feature Planting
• Long flowering season
• Unique native flower spikes
• Suitable for Cut Flowers
• Requires well-drained soil
• Sensitive to poor drainage and heavy soils

Toxicity:
No significant toxicity to humans or animals is commonly associated with this plant. As with all ornamental plants, ingestion is not recommended.

Companion Plants:
• Grevillea
• Callistemon
• Hakea
• Westringia
• Correa
• Leptospermum
• Melaleuca
• Lomandra