Dryandra quercifolia (Banksia heliantha)

	Family:	Proteaceae
	Distribution:	Far south coast of Western Australia in shrubland.
	Common Name:	Oak-leaved Dryandra
	Derivation of Name:	Dryandra...after Jonas Dryander, a swedish botanist. quercifolia...with leaves similar to the genus Quercus, the Oak.
	Conservation Status:	Not considered to be at risk in the wild.

General Description:

Dryandra is a large genus of 135 species in the Protea family. Their nearest relative is the genus Banksia but, unlike the banksias, Dryandra occurs naturally only in Western Australia (Banksia can be found in all states and one species one even extends its range to islands to Australia's north). Many authorities now include Dryandra in an expanded Banksia genus (see box).

Yellow and pink-flowered forms of Dryandra quercifolia (Banksia heliantha) Photos: Margaret Pieroni

Dryandra quercifolia is one of the most attractive species in the genus. It is a spreading shrub to about 2 metres high by a similar width. The leaves are stiff and about 100mm long with toothed margins. The new growth is a bronze colour and adds to the attraction of the plant. The bright yellow flower clusters may be up to 80mm in diameter and occur at the ends of the branches in spring. Dark brown bracts which occur at the base of the flowerheads give them a very attractive appearance. Pink flowered forms are also known and are in cultivation.

D.quercifolia has proven itself to be reliable in inland areas in well drained, sandy soils but, like many others in the genus, cannot be regarded as suitable for areas of humid summer conditions. The large flower clusters are very popular as cut flowers and the species is being farmed for the cut flower trade.

Propagation from seed is relatively easy and cuttings are also successful.