Banksia oblongifolia

Common Name: Fern Leaved Banksia

Banksia oblongifolia was previously known as Banksia aspleniifolia in New South Wales

Transcript of Aunty Fran Bodkin explaining the uses of Banksia oblongifolia:

Banksia aspleniifolia, the nectar from the hot flowers was mixed with hot water and taken to treat sore throats. When the nectar was running, children were encouraged to eat the flowers – you didn’t have to encourage them, as soon as they saw the nectar running they were there anyway.

The grub inhabiting the trunk and branches of the tree was eaten raw or cooked; this is the famous witchetty grub – the recommendation is to eat it cooked.