Banksias
The pods, the flowers, the leaves and sometimes even the bark are all interesting.
May 2025 - The dark pods contrast with the green leaves on this Banksia serrata in the Blue Mountains, NSW. 
Banksia serrata pod in Katoomba, the gateway to the Blue Mountains.  B. serrata has interesting bumpy bark.

The pods have inspired many illustrations and paintings (see Google or Etsy), and are used in woodturning projects.  A company called Banksia Gifts Australia makes "aroma pods" which can be found in some souvenir shops:
"Fit for a King - Banksia Pod Woodturning Masterpiece."  Tending Woodturning.  |  Banksia Gifts Australia.