Banksia
paludosa subsp. astrolux: In 1985 a “Nattai” form of Banksia
paludosa was recorded on the Southern Highlands of NSW. This form was
significantly different from the “normal” form of Banksia paludosa.
The normal form has a maximum height of two metres and has a lignotuber (a
swollen mass at the base of the plant that will produce shoots if the plant is
damaged). The Nattai form grows to a height of five metres and has no
lignotuber.
The subspecies name, astrolux, means starlight and
refers to the location of this rare Banksia. It is protected in Nattai
National Park near the start of Starlight’s Track. Hence the common name:
Starlight’s Banksia. Typical toothed, leathery leaves and long, narrow pale
brown to golden brown flower spikes. Starlight’s Banksia has very limited
distribution. Although it is protected in a National Park, this Banksia is at
risk. Bushfires at too frequent intervals will prevent seedlings from maturing
and producing seeds and could cause the extinction of Starlight’s Banksia.
It is a handsome plant with colourful flowers and has great horticultural
potential and should be brought into cultivation to ensure the survival of the
subspecies. No doubt birds would be attracted to the flowers. Starlight’s
Banksia is reputed to be fast growing and propagates readily from seeds and
cuttings.