| Botanic name | Banksia coccinea |
| Other names | Scarlet banksia, waratah banksia |
| Main Origin | Southwest coast of Western Australia |
| Mature size | 2 – 4 m x 3 – 5 m (w x h) |
| Mature form | Upright shrub or small tree |
| Foliage | Broad, leathery, serrated, silvery green with pale underside |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Position | Full sun |
| Soil | Prefers sandy soil, but adapts to most well-drained soils |
| Water | Deep watering during prolonged dry periods |
| Climate | Mediterranean, temperate |
| Flower | Vibrant scarlet red, squat spikes from late winter to early summer |
| Use | Feature specimen, container planting, cut flower |
| Notes | Suitable for coastal sites, intolerant of high humidity |
IN THIS ARTICLE
Overview
Banksia coccinea, commonly known as the Scarlet Banksia, is one of Australia’s most visually arresting native plants. The dazzling floral display breathes life and colour into the landscape when much of the garden lies dormant.
More than just a showpiece, Scarlet Banksia has a strong architectural presence. The symmetry of its cylindrical flower heads and the clean, saw-toothed lines of its foliage give it a sculptural quality that adds structure and rhythm to planting schemes.
Its beauty transcends the garden. The long-lasting vibrancy and elegance are highly prized in the cut flower industry. With its unique blend of vivid colour, form, and structure, this banksia is a living work of art – resilient, refined, and unforgettable.
Origin and distribution
Banksia coccinea is endemic to the southwestern coastal region of Western Australia. It can be found in shrublands, heathlands, and woodlands.
This species prefers a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and cool, wet winters. High humidity, especially during summer, can overwhelm the plant, as it is highly susceptible to root rot.
While immensely popular in the cut flower industry, with strong aesthetic appeal and excellent vase life, it is extensively grown commercially abroad, where climate conditions are met.
Growth and care
Banksia coccinea generally prefers Mediterranean or temperate climates with low summer humidity. It can withstand cold temperatures to -5°C, with mild to moderate frost tolerance.
The plant is highly particular about its soil requirements. In cultivation, it thrives in well-drained, sandy, slightly acidic to neutral soils, which reflects its natural habitat. Heavy, poorly-drained soils often lead to root rot of this species.
Like other banksias, Banksia coccinea prefers nutrient-poor soils due to proteoid roots. These specialised roots are incredibly efficient at extracting scarce nutrients, making the plant highly sensitive to phosphorus toxicity.
Generally, the plant does not require fertilisation. However, if growth is slow or leaves appear pale, a low-phosphorus, slow-release native plant fertiliser can be applied sparingly in spring. Excessive fertilisation can be detrimental.
While young plants require regular watering, established shrubs are highly drought-tolerant and only need additional watering during prolonged dry periods, even though the plant does not have a lignotuber like Banksia menziesii.
Originating from coastal regions, Banksia coccinea tolerates salt spray and salt-laden winds well. It also thrives in well-drained, sandy soils, making it inherently suited to coastal gardens. However, this plant is not a frontline species and cannot sustain full coastal exposure.
Banksia coccinea naturally adopts an open and sparse natural form and can become somewhat straggly without intervention. Pruning is generally required for Banksia coccinea to enhance its desirability in the garden.
Prune after flowering by removing spent flower spikes and any straggly stems to encourage branching for a bushy, compact form and more blooming the following season. Light shaping also contributes to its overall aesthetic appeal and health.
Features
Banksia coccinea typically grows as an upright shrub or small tree, usually reaching 3 – 5 metres, though it can grow taller in ideal conditions. Unlike many other banksias, it has a more open, vertical habit, with less emphasis on outward spread.
Widely considered as one of the most attractive natives, Banksia coccinea features distinctive, silvery or grey-green foliage that contrasts perfectly with its vibrant red flowers.
Arranged alternately along the stems, its leaves are broad, stiff, and leathery, with prominently serrated or toothed margins, giving them a coarse yet compelling texture for contemporary planting schemes.
The most defining characteristic is its striking, vibrant scarlet flower spikes, with a cylindrical, barrel shape, setting them apart from the more elongated or slender spikes of many other Banksia species.
The short and broad (squat) blooms measure only 3 – 6 cm long and 8 – 10 cm wide, sitting prominently at the stem terminals. Their bold positioning further accentuates the plant’s vertical presence and highlights its rugged yet refined structure.
More than just seasonal colour, these terminal blooms enhance the plant’s architectural form, transforming each stem into a sculptural statement that serves as both a botanical feature and a striking design element in the modern landscape.
