Prionotes Dwarf Banksia Or Acorn Banksia

The dwarf form of Banksia prionotes, commonly known as Acorn Banksia, is a compact, bird-attracting Western Australian native shrub. It delivers the same striking orange and cream flower spikes as the full-sized tree, but in a smaller, garden-friendly size ideal for suburban landscapes in Perth.

🌿 Description

Banksia prionotes dwarf is a dense, evergreen shrub selected for its reduced height and compact growth habit. It produces large cylindrical flower spikes that open cream and mature to brilliant orange, creating a bold display in late summer to winter.

This smaller-growing form is perfect for modern gardens where space is limited but visual impact is still desired.

✨ Features & Benefits

• Spectacular orange and cream flower spikes
• Excellent bird-attracting native plant
• Drought tolerant once established
• Ideal for small gardens and native landscapes
• Suited to Perth’s sandy soils
• Coastal wind tolerant

📏 Height & Growth Habit

• Height: 1.5m (dwarf form)
• Width: 1.5 metres
• Growth rate: Moderate
• Habit: Dense, upright shrub

🌞 Growing Conditions in Perth

Banksia prionotes is naturally suited to Western Australia’s climate and performs exceptionally well in Perth.

☀️ Sunlight

• Requires full sun for best flowering and growth.

🌱 Soil

• Prefers well-drained sandy soils
• Tolerates poor, low-nutrient soils
• Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas

💧 Watering

• Water deeply during establishment (first 6–12 months)
• Once established, very drought tolerant
• Avoid frequent shallow watering

🌊 Coastal Conditions

• Tolerates coastal winds and sandy soils
• Suitable for coastal Perth gardens

🌿 Care Guide

Fertiliser

• Use low-phosphorus native fertiliser only
• Apply lightly in spring if needed
• Avoid high-phosphorus products

Pruning

• Light prune after flowering to maintain shape
• Remove spent flower spikes if desired
• Avoid cutting into old, leafless wood

Mulching

• Apply coarse native mulch
• Keep mulch away from the trunk

Common Problems

• Root rot (poor drainage)
• Phosphorus toxicity (leaf yellowing or burn)
• Reduced flowering in low light

🌸 Why Choose Banksia prionotes Dwarf for Perth Gardens?

• Native to Western Australia
• Thrives in Perth’s sandy soils
• Low maintenance once established
• Excellent habitat plant for nectar-feeding birds
• Strong architectural feature plant