Memories of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie at City Farm
The banksias were made famous by May Gibbs in her Snugglepot and Cuddlepie books. Photograph by Mary Boyce
Banksias were named after Sir Joseph Banks who obtained specimens as Cook’s voyage sailed along Australia’s east coast.
These iconic Australian plants have sculptural flower heads that vary greatly in size and the colours range from green, through cream, to orange and red.
Flowering is often in autumn and winter when colour in the garden is very welcome. Birds, insects and small mammals are attracted to the nectar. The unusual seed heads have been made famous as the ‘Big Bad Banksia Men’ in May Gibbs’ Snugglepot and Cuddlepie children’s stories.
Most banksias like a sunny, well- drained position. They are long-lived and can be pruned to a tidier shape if you are not fond of the natural gnarled look.
Banksia integrifolia (Coastal banksia) is our plant of the month. It is a hardy tree to 15m, that is resistant to sea spray, has golden flowers, fruit with many woody follicles and leaves that are silver underneath.
- Please note: A decision has been made to open City Farm year round on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only. We will not be open on a Friday at all.
- We are a cash only organisation.
- The City Farm AGM will be held on November 13 at 10am on the premises.
City Farm, opposite the Community Centre, on Tin Can Bay Road, is open to the public for plant sales on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8am-3pm, 07 54862304. ccfni09@gmail.com, www.cooloolacityfarm.org
