any of a genus (Banksia) of Australian evergreen shrubs of the protea family, with showy, dense clusters of small flowers and spiny leaves
See banksia in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(băngkˈsē-ə)
noun
Any of various Australian evergreen shrubs or trees of the genus Banksia, having narrow, spiny or toothed leaves, showy, dense clusters of usually yellow flowers, and small fruits in conelike clusters.