Resprouting Mechanisms: Many coastal species survive fire, after their leaves are burnt. by regenerating new growth from dormant buds
These adaptions include:
• Lignotubers: Woody, starchy swellings at the base of the plant, often found in Banksia and Eucalyptus, allow for rapid sprouting.
• Epicormic Buds: Buds located deep under the thick, fire-resistant bark of many gums allow them to regenerate new branches.
Seed Banks : Some plants die above ground but have seeds that are protected from fire.
These adaptions include:
• Serotiny: Woody cones or capsules, typical of Banksias and Hakeas, which hold seeds securely on their branches. The heat from a fire triggers these pods to open and release seeds into the nutrient-rich ash.
• Soil Seed Banks: Seeds with hard coats may lie dormant in the soil for years, with fire, smoke, or ash acting as a chemical signal to trigger germination. The later when dissolved in rain water.
Epicormic buds on a Bloodwood Tree
Woody seed capsules on a Dagger Leaf Hakea