This compact form of Banksia ashbyi is a striking native shrub with deeply serrated grey-green foliage and large, vivid orange flower spikes that appear mainly in autumn and winter. Its bold blooms stand out brightly against the foliage, adding strong seasonal colour and attracting birds and pollinators into the garden. Unlike the taller form, the dwarf variety stays neat and manageable, making it more versatile for smaller spaces.

It is well-suited for coastal and dry landscapes, native gardens, feature planting, or grouped in beds for a massed display. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for suburban gardens where the larger form would be overwhelming. The bright flowers make it a standout feature plant, while its tough nature ensures reliability with minimal care.

Care

Light: Full sun is best for strong flowering and dense growth.
Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or gravelly soils. Avoid heavy clay and ensure good drainage.
Climate: Very drought and heat tolerant once established. Suited to coastal conditions and dry summers. 
Fertilising: Use a low-phosphorus, native-safe fertiliser in spring. Avoid over-fertilising.
Watering: Water regularly when establishing, then only occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells.
Pruning & Maintenance: Light tip pruning after flowering helps maintain compact form. Avoid cutting into old wood.

Height & Width: Around 1–2 m high × 1–2 m wide.