Banksia Serrata. Abundant in the bushland that I am surrounded by - The Blue Mountains national Park. The Winter season is ending, it is dark and cold,  but before I am swept away by the expansive explosive beauty that is Spring, I take note of the interesting exposed barks, fallen leaves and seeds pods of this beautiful plant. 

A walk in silence through local bushland savouring the cool air and moisture brought by rain.

Grey skies contrast the strong bold form of the Banksia

Texture of the bark, distorted into phsychadelic patterns by my macro lens

The unique patterns found within the trunk. This one has been cut to make the track safer. 

A close up of the fine hairs on the pods.

The leaves are strong, thick and have tiny sharp points along the edges. 

The one tree will  have seed pods in all stages of growth on it. 

The leaf and pod litter.

A sweet grove of Banksia's.

A most interesting tree. 

A late night study under my lamp by the fire of a seed pod from my collection. Fabriano classic sketchbook. Derwent Graphitint pencils.