This large shrub to small tree has a smooth grey trunk with spreading pubescent branches that form an irregular open crown. It has serrated dark green linear leaves and the cream to orange flower spike appears terminally from midsummer to winter.

Hardiness zones 9 to 10

Banksia prionotes is naturally found in south-west Western Australia growing along the coast and inland from shark Bay to Jerramungup in the south and appearing in heath and shrubland in swales and the lower slopes of dunes. 

It prefers an open to expose sunny position and grows in deep very well drained white or yellow sand that is poor moderately fertile. It is drought and moderately frost tolerant and is killed by fire then regenerates from seed.

The Acorn Banksia is grown for its attractive flowers and its tree-like habit. It is plant along borders in parks and gardens for screening and attracting birds and used as a specimen in public place. It is also grown around commercial buildings and is suitable to coastal or inland regions. It establishes in 3-4 years and has long lived. The flowers are used in floral arrangements and the plant is ideal for sand stabilisation programs. ID 3779

Banksia (BANK-see-a) prionotes (pry-oh-NOH-tees)

Note:
This shrub produces a vertical tap root that seeks out the water table for reliable moisture during the dry months and produces numerous horizontal lateral roots for stabilisation. Root development generally occurs during the winter months and the foliage grows during summer.

Proteaceae (pro-tee-AY-see-ee)
Protea Family