February 2026

Is Skimmia Rubella sun or shade? Skimmia ‘Rubella’ Wonderfully low-maintenance, Skimmia is best suited to moist but well-drained soil and partial shade, but also grows well in full shade. It’s a little sensitive to light, so if possible, keep it out of the full sun, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow. Skimmia […]

Where is the best place to plant Skimmia? Choosing skimmias Skimmias are one of the best low-maintenance, slow-growing, hardy evergreen shrubs for shadier borders. They are also a good choice for container planting in north-facing situations. Smaller plants are useful for window boxes or hanging baskets in winter. Pruning. Skimmia needs little pruning, but if

Can Banksia be eaten? Food: The nectar from banksia flowers is a good source of food for birds and other small animals. The seeds of some banksia species are also edible, and can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into flour. Medicine: Some banksia species have been used in traditional Aboriginal medicine. Banksias are much

What is the most attractive Banksia? Banksia ericifolia (Heath-leaved Banksia) is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful banksias in Australia, with its large striking spikes of yellow to reddish-orange flowers contrasted with small, linear, light-green to greyish-green leaves. Most beautiful among them is the Ajuga australis from Flora South Australia. This spectacular specimen has bright

What is the fruit of Banksia serrata? The fruits of banksias (called follicles) are hard and woody and are often grouped together to resemble cones (which they are not true cones are produced only by conifers). The fruits protect the seeds from foraging animals and from fire. Whilst Banksias are relatively easy to grow, they

How big does Banksia spinulosa grow? The hairpin banksia usually occurs as a multi-stemmed lignotuberous shrub 1–3 metres (3. Some species, for example Banksia ericifolia and Banksia menziesii , are known for their spectacular flower heads. The flower heads produce large volumes of nectar and attract many birds and small mammals to feed on them.

What is the Banksia tree used for? Both the shrub and tree forms of Banksia are commonly planted in parks and gardens for their beauty and ability to attract wildlife. Beekeepers sometimes grow them as a reliable source of nectar, particularly when other sources are scant. Most Banksia species can be infected with ‘dieback’, a

What does banksia flower smell like? Banksia blossoms are often fragrant, and some species have a scent that has been likened to baked bread. Another fun fact: Banksia blossoms are fragrant and smell like baked bread.Banksia symbolises rebirth and new beginnings. To move on the past courageously, to have the strength which pain cannot touch

Is Gaillardia a perennial or annual? Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata) is a perennial species of the northern plains, Rocky Mountains, and inland Northwest. Indian blanket (G. Arizona across the southern plains, Gulf Coast, and Florida. What happens if you don’t deadhead? It won’t cause any harm if you leave dead flowers on the plant. It will

Do Gaillardia come back every year? Yes, most blanket flowers (Gaillardia spp. USDA Zones 3–10. However, their lifespan can be just 2–3 years, especially in humid climates or poorly draining soil. Regular deadheading and dividing can help them persist longer. SARA’S CORNER) Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, is an easy-to- grow, short-lived perennial with