Banksia fraseri
Uncommon shrub has attractive straw-yellow flowers that are well displayed at branch tips. Takes well to pruning if form becomes too sprawling with time. Good drainage. No phosphorus.
 Synonyms | Dryandra fraseri |
|---|---|
 Height | 18–24in |
 Width | 2–3ft |
 Tolerates | Coast, Drought, Pots, Wind |
 Water needs | Low – Moderate |
Banksia are from mediterranean climates of Australia and adapt well to California, particularly along the coast. They appreciate good drainage, but are somewhat adaptable to heavier soil as long as watering is infrequent (once established) and they are in a sunny spot. Once established they will grow and look their best with deep watering every other week to once a month during summer. If they have sharp drainage they will tolerate even more water. Of the dryandra group of banksias fraseri is known to be one of the most adaptable, which is evidenced by its large range - all the way from the Kalbarri north of Geraldton to Cranbrook in the far south-west of Australia. | |
 Hardy to | 24°F |
 Exposure | Part Shade – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Flowering, Shrub |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | Bloodmeal, Fish Emulsion, Low Needs, No Phosphorus |
 Origin | SW Australia |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 15–17, 22–24 |
Growing Notes
This banksia has evolved a thick taproot called a lignotuber, which allows it to regrow from devastating wildfires. This also allows this banksia to take hard pruning much better than banksia without lignotubers, even to the ground once mature. Plant in high fire areas for a regenerative garden.
Banksia prefer mildly acidic soil, and if your PH is on the high side you can add cottonseed meal or chelated iron to lower it. They appreciate nitrogen in the form of fish emulsion or blood meal, but never give them any significant phosphorus and avoid potassium.
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The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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