Grevillea banksii
(Red Silky Oak)
Classification
| Division:
|
Anthophyta
|
| Class:
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Dicotyledones
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| Family:
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Proteaceae
|
Geographic Range
This tree is endemic to Australia and is mainly found in central eastern Queensland. It may also be found in warmer regions in Australia in gardens. Other areas where it thrives include Fiji, French Polynesia, and Hawaii. It does not do well in cooler and mountainous regions, but may be found near rainforest edges.
Physical Characteristics
| Height: | Grows up to 5 meters. |
| Diameter: | Up to 3 meters. |
Grevillea banksii is considered either a large shrub or a small tree. It is a noxious woody evergreen with deciduous flowers. The branches are gray to reddish and hairy. The compound leaves are dark green and deeply lobed. The leaves range from 10-20 cm long, have 3-7 leaflets which are sharply pointing and are broader at the bottom. The leaves have grayish hair below, and are often hairy above. The flowers are clustered at the ends of the branches and are most commonly bright red but white varieties do occur. The flower spikes are 5-10 cm long and cylindrical. The fruit is brown, about 1-3 cm long, leathery and densely hairy.
Natural History
Reproduction
The seeds are wind-dispersed. They flower on and off throughout the year, most often in the spring.
Habitat
This hardy species grows readily in warm climates and is suitable for coastal environments. It requires full sun and is easily damaged at temperatures below -4 degrees C. Acidic soils are preferred and need to be well-drained, and overwatering is harmful. This species is very sensitive to high phosphorus levels, some fertilizers that are high in phosphorus are fatal. It is quite common in gardens throughout Australia.
Conservation/Biodiversity
Presently, this species is not at risk in the wild. They are ornamental plants which have been spread from their native area as decoration in gardens. They have become a nuissance in Hawaii.
Economic Benefits for Humans
Positive
These trees are decorational and are planted in gardens throughout Australia and in other regions. They are food for many birds, which is another reason to have them in gardens because people enjoy looking at the birds.
Negative
They have been invasive in Hawaii and are considered a pest due to their hardiness. They are weedy and unfavorable in some regions.
Comments
Other names include Kahili flower, Banks Grevillea, and Haiku. Over 250 Grevillea species exist.
References and Links
Image Source
| Entry Author: |
Alison Bates |
William Smith College |
2002 |