Banksia serrata

Banksia serrata, also known as banksia, Old Man Banksia, Saw Banksia or Saw-tooth Banksia, is a species of evergreen tree in the Proteaceae family. This shrub is native to Australia, specifically from areas east of Queensland to Victoria. The shrub grows up to 15 metres tall and is characterised by broad grey-green leaves with scalloped edges and large, cylindrical flowers that change colour from grey to yellow as they age.

Banksia serrata is an important tree in Australia, not only in terms of biodiversity, but also for the production of certain products. The wood of this tree is hard, heavy and has an attractive veined pattern with a fine texture, making it ideal for furniture and wood carvings. It is also used in carving and the manufacture of musical instruments. The bark of the tree is also used in the production of dyes, while the inflorescence produces rich nectar that is harvested for the production of honey. Extracts of Banksia serrata are also used in traditional Australian medicine for the treatment of various ailments.