Family: Proteaceae

Banksia burdettii, or Burdett’s banksia, is a striking Australian shrub known for its tall, upright form and spectacular flower spikes. Reaching up to 10 feet tall, it produces long, cylindrical orange-and-cream flowers that attract pollinators and make it a favorite in drought-tolerant and native gardens. Its bold, saw-toothed leaves and dramatic blooms give it a sculptural look year-round, and it’s often used as a feature plant or in cut-flower arrangements. This species prefers full sun, sandy soils, and good drainage, and it thrives in dry climates once established.

In Hawai‘i, Banksia burdettii is not known to be naturalized, and there is currently no evidence that it spreads on its own. However, like many Proteaceae, it can be sensitive to high rainfall and poorly drained soils, so gardeners should choose planting sites carefully. While it’s primarily appreciated as an ornamental, responsible cultivation is still important—dispose of green waste properly and avoid planting near natural areas. With the right care, this eye-catching shrub can be enjoyed in landscapes without posing an invasive threat.

High Risk Traits:

• Forms dense thickets
  
• Congeneric species are invasive
  
• Long-term canopy seed bank (9–12 years)
  
• Tolerates a wide soil pH range
  
• Increases fire hazard in dry ecosystems

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized
  
• No history of introduction or weediness
  
• No spines, toxins, or allelopathy
  
• Requires full sun; not shade tolerant
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Slow maturation (≥2 years)
  
• Seed dispersal limited
  
• Not prolific; killed by fire