ScienceAugust 19, 2026

banksia

BANK-see-uh

Definition

A genus of Australian native trees and shrubs characterized by their unique, large, often cylindrical flower spikes and woody seed cones.

Etymology

Named in honor of the British botanist Sir Joseph Banks, who accompanied Captain James Cook on his 1770 voyage to Australia and was the first European to collect these specimens.

In the news

The article mentions Ashby's banksia as a resilient, recommended starter plant for gardeners seeking low-maintenance Australian native species.

Keen to plant native flowers in your garden? We asked an expert for tips

Read the full article ↗

ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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