banksia coccinea

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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Banksia coccinea, also known as the Scarlet Banksia, is a striking native shrub celebrated for its vibrant red-orange flower spikes and unique foliage. This iconic Australian plant has become increasingly popular with New Zealand gardeners, thanks to its architectural beauty, low maintenance requirements, and value for birds and pollinators. If you’re searching for a showstopper shrub with year-round garden impact and drought tolerance, Banksia coccinea is a brilliant choice.

Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia)

Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia) is a hardy evergreen tree admired for its striking yellow flower spikes and tough coastal nature. This Australian native performs exceptionally well in many parts of New Zealand, particularly in coastal and exposed locations. The attractive foliage and nectar rich flowers attract birds and pollinators to the garden. Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia) is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting a resilient feature tree with year round interest.

Buy Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia)

From $343.89

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 10.00 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Flowering time: Summer, Autumn, Winter

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Banks, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern

Quercus coccinea

Quercus coccinea, commonly known as the Scarlet Oak tree, features very colourful autumn foliage. The foliage emerges light green in spring, ages to dark green, then changes to an impressive scarlet red in autumn before falling. Small, yellow-green flowers in spring produce brown acorns in autumn amidst the foliage. The Scarlet Oak will typically grow to 20 m tall and 10 m wide with a rounded crown. Quercus coccinea is widely planted in avenues or grown as a specimen in extensive gardens and parks, with the added advantage of fantastic summer shade.

Buy Quercus coccinea

From $299.92

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 20.00 m

Spread: 10.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Japanese

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Banksia Quercus and Rosa, or related Categories - Climbing Roses Evergreen Shrubs and Deciduous Trees.

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What is Banksia coccinea?

Banksia coccinea originates from the coastal sandplains of Western Australia, where it thrives in well-drained soils, sun-drenched locations, and exposed conditions. The Scarlet Banksia typically forms a dense, upright shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 2–6 metres. Its bold, silver-green foliage provides stunning contrast to the fiery red flower spikes, which appear from winter through to late spring. These bottlebrush-like blooms are highly attractive to native birds, bees, and nectar-loving insects, making Banksia coccinea a valuable habitat plant for any garden.

Growing Banksia coccinea in New Zealand

Banksia coccinea is well-suited to a range of New Zealand gardens, particularly those seeking low-water, low-maintenance solutions. For best results, plant in a sandy or gritty, well-drained soil in an open, sunny spot—avoid heavy clay or locations prone to waterlogging. Scarlet Banksia is surprisingly wind-tolerant and frost-resistant once established, making it a resilient choice for coastal or exposed sites. Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.

Garden Uses and Design Ideas

The sculptural flowers and foliage of Banksia coccinea make it a bold focal point in native planting schemes, drought-tolerant gardens, and contemporary landscapes. Consider mass planting for a dramatic effect, or team it with other banksias, such as Banksia praemorsa (Cut-Leaf Banksia), Banksia praemorsa Yellow (Yellow Banksia), and Banksia marginata (Silver Banksia), to create an attractive, bird-friendly sanctuary.

Banksia coccinea is also superb in cut flower arrangements. The long-lasting blooms retain their colour and shape even when dried, making them particularly sought-after by florists and for home decoration. For further groundcover interest, try pairing with Banksia Roller Coaster, which offers cascading growth and yellow flower spikes.

Companion Plants

For added colour and texture, mix Banksia coccinea with other sun-loving natives, tough shrubs, or succulents. The vivid red flowers pair beautifully with warm-toned rock mulches, grasses, and contrasting foliage. If you’re looking for low-growing companions, Crassula coccinea is another drought-tolerant option with a vibrant seasonal display of scarlet blooms.

Why Choose Banksia coccinea?

Banksia coccinea brings unmatched garden drama with minimal maintenance. Its drought hardiness, unique flowers, and ecological benefits make it a top pick for New Zealand gardens that want year-round interest with sustainable water use. Whether you’re designing a native border, creating a wildlife haven, or searching for memorable cut flowers, the Scarlet Banksia is sure to impress.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.