First described by the botanist Robert Brown in the early 19th century, no separate varieties of Banksia menziesii are recognised. It is found in Western Australia, from the Perth (32° S) region north to the Murchison River (27° S), and generally grows on sandy soils, in scrubland or low woodland. Banksia menziesii provides food for a wide array of invertebrate and vertebrate animals; birds and in particular honeyeaters are prominent visitors.
A relatively hardy plant, Banksia menziesii is commonly seen in gardens, nature strips and parks in Australian urban areas with Mediterranean climates, but its sensitivity to dieback from the soil-borne water mould Phytophthora cinnamomi makes it short-lived in places with humid summers, such as Sydney. Banksia menziesii is widely used in the cut flower industry both in Australia and overseas.
This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.
Wow that is big and wonderful.
ReplyDeleteHave a nice day, Marit.
that is one unique blossom....looks like a cross between a woolen cap and a sno-cone! Amazing...
ReplyDeleteIt is so big, I saw a few banksia also when we went bushwalking in North Ryde. A lot of species were given as tribute to Joseph Banks.
ReplyDeleteA bold and beautiful example of the banksia! Love the contrast of coloured one and grey ones as a background canvas!
ReplyDeleteVery unique!
ReplyDeleteOrange Blossom
What an amazing looking flower. It is unusual, to my eyes, and very beautiful.
ReplyDelete