Firewood Banksia - Menziesii

Discover the mesmerizing allure of the rugged and yet stunning Banksia menziesii! The flower spike is showy and vibrant, wine-red that becomes mingled with yellow as the bloom matures, and set against a backdrop of chic, twisted grey-green leaves… it’s captivating.

Menziesii is also referred to as Port Wine Banksia or Raspberry Frost due to its amazing color and Firewood Banksia due to its quick burning properties. It typically blooms during autumn and into winter. Each spike is composed of up to 6,000 individual flowers, and yet only a few become filled with seeds. The seeds are enclosed in sacs attached to an indestructible cone until it’s burnt.

This spectacular banksia is thought to have a special flower essence. Australian Aboriginal people would use menziesii in their rituals and ceremonies for its healing capabilities for courage. Courage to help one release pain and to move ahead triumphantly, with renewed energy. This flower essence parallels with The Language of Flowers and the symbol of Protea - Diversity and Courage.

Whether flaunted alone or showcased with other florals, menziesii never fails to put on an amazing display.

Banksia Menziesii

Banksia menziesii, also called Menzies' banksia, firewood banksia, port wine banksia or Raspberry Frost. Because every fall arrangement needs a robust yet stunning bloom like this one! The flower spikes are showy and vibrant, dark pink-red or raspberry in color that become intermingled with yellow as they mature. Other colors like bronze and greenish-yellow menziesii exist as well. Each bloom is composed of up to 6,000 individual flowers (inflorescence) and set against a backdrop of chic twisted grey-green leaves.

It has been said that this striking banksia has a special flower essence or healing energy, a distinctive dynamic inner life force that differentiates it from other flowers. Aboriginal People from all over the world have used flowers in their rituals and ceremonies, aware of their subtle healing properties. Menziesii’s special healing power is “Courage” – the courage to release pain and to move ahead triumphantly, and that “Triumph” over disaster leads to renewed energy. This essence certainly seems to parallel with The Language of Flowers and the symbolic meaning of Proteas which represent… diversity, transformation, daring courage and resourcefulness.

Autumn days deserve a little extra vigor, lots of great textures and interesting shapes. Menziesii combined with an array of other proteas and florals radiate a homey spontaneity and seasonal splendor.

In the Field: Banksia Menziesii

Menziesii is also referred to as Menzies' banksia, firewood banksia, port wine banksia or 'Raspberry Frost' – all very suitable nicknames for this fabulous flower.

Menziesii blooms in the fall when the reddish flowers begin to open from the base. Gradually taking their time, sometimes taking weeks, row after row of flowers open until the flowering reaches the top of the cone, looking like splendid candles on a Christmas tree.

This banksia’s essence certainly seems to parallel with The Language of Flowers and the symbol of Protea – Courage and Diversity! Menziesii, not only is a beautiful flower, but strong and powerful one as well. And when it comes to diversity… it looks fabulous mixed with other flowers and foliage.