Banksia Pygmy Possum™

Just like its namesake, Pygmy Possum flowers sit upon the densely leaved branches like so many chunky silver possums, providing endless amusement and feed for honeyeaters (and if you are lucky enough, pygmy possums themselves), with their copious nectar supply.

 

A low dense groundcover spreading 2-3 metres. Glossy serrated foliage covers the layers of branchlets, and beautiful silver grey possum-like buds open to bright yellow brushes in summer and autumn. The large flowers stand upright above the stems, very attractive to honey eating birds and small possums, and the seed is much loved by parrots. Moderately fast growing. Best in well drained clay or sandy soils, neutral to slightly acid pH. Loves full sun or light shade, hardy in temperate to sub tropical and semi arid climates, thrives in dry coastal sites. Tolerates moderate frosts.

 

 

Uses: a handsome landscape ‘statement’ plant with a silvery sculpted trunk; looks stunning cascading down walls or over banks; or use as a dramatic large container plant.

Maintenance: only requires light trimming to control spread of branches, and to promote soft new growth. Clip off spent flowers, or leave to develop seed for the parrots. Feed in early spring or late summer with low phosphorus controlled release fertilizer. If container-grown, use best quality free-draining potting medium, keep moist but do not over water.  Very low water needs when established. 

A rounded compact garden shrub, Pygmy Possum will grow in most soils of a well drained nature, and needs only minimal pruning to keep it tidy.

 

Selected and developed by Austraflora Pty Ltd © ACRA registered  No 354 The TM Pygmy Possum is owned by Austraflora Pty Ltd © The name Austraflora and its symbol are protected by ®

Back Up Next