| Tropical Banksia | |
|---|---|
| Banksia dentata, young follicles. | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Banksia |
| Species: | B. dentata |
| Binomial name | |
| Banksia dentata L.f. |
|
The Tropical Banksia (Banksia dentata) is a species of small tree in the plant genus Banksia.
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It occurs throughout northern Australia, and also extends into New Guinea and the Aru Islands. It is the only Banksia species not endemic to Australia.
The Tropical banksia is generally a small tree to 5 metres, with large green dentate leaves and yellow inflorescences. Though not closely studied, reports suggest it does not vary significantly over its range.
There has been debate on which species it is most closely related to. The inflorescences are similar to Banksia integrifolia, while the leaves are reminiscent of Banksia robur. In any case it is clearly a member of the Salicinae series.
The plant has been seldom cultivated, though isolated reports suggest it is in fact frost hardy. Seeds do not require any treatment, and take 32 to 40 days to germinate.[1]