Coast Banksia

Description:

Coast Banksia is classic Australian flora, and is a native species of tree that grows along the country's east coast. A member of the Proteaceae family, it is one of the most widely distributed Banksia species, occurring between Victoria and Central Queensland in a broad range of habitats, from coastal dunes to mountain areas. It is highly variable in form, but is most often encountered as a tree up to 25 metres (82 ft) in height, (although this spindly young specimen was nowhere near that). Its leaves have dark green upper surfaces and white undersides, a contrast that can be striking on windy days. (Wiki) The flowers are magnificent, and this spotting shows various stages from flower to seed cone. The nectar is an important winter food for sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps).

Habitat:

Spotted along the Summit Track at the Mt. Gravatt Conservation Reserve, only a few kilometres from Brisbane's CBD. Naturally seeded tree in sandy soil, in a well-shaded area due to surrounding tall eucalypts in dry sclerophyll forest.

Notes:

Mount Gravatt Environment Group maintain this reserve, and their website is very informative and comprehensive - https://megoutlook.org/flora-fauna/ I've confirmed this spotting ID with this website.