Banksia oblongifolia - Fern Leaved Banksia / Rusty Banksia - 15 seeds

Banksia oblongifolia, commonly known as the Fern Leaved Banksia is typically a fairly open, multi-stemmed shrub to around 1 to 1.5m high by a similar spread when found in coastal heathland but may grow taller in forested areas, to 3m or so.  It occurs naturally on the east coast from about Ulladulla in New South Wales to about 70km north Bundaberg in Queensland.  An isolated population is also recorded on the Blackdown Tableland in Queensland.
 
Bark is smooth grey brown, with the hairy new growth a rusty colour, the alternate oblong or obovate leaves are 5 to 11cm long by 1.5 to 2cm wide with serrate (occasionally entire) margins.  It takes its common name from the rusty coloured hairs under its new leaves which resemble the spores under a fern's leaf and its botanical name comes from the oblong shape of its leaves.
 
The flowers, which occur in Autumn and Winter, are cylindrical and can be various shades of blue-grey or greenish yellow in bud, opening to a yellow.  Some forms, such as those at Catherine Hill Bay on the Central Coast of New South Wales, maintain a bluish green tinge after the flowers have opened.  The spikes are 5 to 15cm high, and 4 to 5cm wide.
 
The seeds are enclosed in follicles attached to a naked woody cone and are generally retained within the cone until burnt.  The species regenerates by regrowth from a lignotuber after fire, as well as from seed.
 
Banksia oblongifolia is uncommon in cultivation, though it is easy to grow in well-drained soils.  It comes from a climate of Summer moisture so should benefit from a little extra water in dry spells.  The plant favours a position in full sun or dappled shade. Its smallish size suggests it would be well suited small gardens, either in the ground or as a container plant.
 
It takes its common name from the rusty coloured hairs under its new leaves which resemble the spores under a fern's leaf. Its botanical name comes from the oblong shape of its leaves.
 
Ideal for planting under established Eucalyptus trees.
 
15 premium quality seeds shipped on receipt of cleared funds.