Queen of Australian Flowers
grevillea banksii
Also known as: ["Banks' Grevillea","Banks' Spider Flower"]
Overview
A striking evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its vibrant, spider-like flowers and fine, needle-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Grevillea |
| Botanical Name: | Grevillea banksii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix; cactus or succulent mix with added organic matter works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may flower less; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to light shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate pots for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low phosphorus content
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix that mimics native soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost and prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good ventilation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer with a low-phosphorus native plant fertilizer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; softwood cuttings root more quickly than hardwood.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid propagation during extreme heat or cold.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix; ensure good aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; focus on post-flowering pruning to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or extreme weather.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pots have drainage holes; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom of the pot or soil surface; avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move indoors; avoid placing near cold drafts; ensure winter protection in containers.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer type; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength for monthly applications during growing season; avoid high-phosphorus formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions if they ingest Grevillea banksii. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Grevillea banksii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGrevillea banksii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Grevillea banksii?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Grevillea banksii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Grevillea banksii suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and performs well in coastal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to light shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
