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Australia is home to some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the world. In fact, according to the World Wildlife Fund, over 12% of the world’s wildflower species can be found in Australia.
If you’re new to wildflowers, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this beginner’s guide. Read on to learn everything you need about wildflowers, from where to find them to how to identify them.
Wildflowers
These are plants that grow in the wild, in natural habitats such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They are usually native to the region where they grow, and many are endangered or threatened.
There are thousands of different species, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some are tiny, while others can grow to be over six feet tall! They are an essential part of the ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for wildlife, and their roots help to hold the soil in place. They also help to purify the air and water.
Best Wildflower in Australia
Australia is the perfect place to start if you’re new to these flowers. With over 1,500 species of wildflowers, you’re sure to find something you love. Here are some of our favourites
Wildflower Gold
Wildflower gold is when a carpet of wildflowers blankets a landscape. It’s often seen in spring but can happen at other times of the year too. This flower spectacle is made up of many different species. Some are annuals, living for just one season, while others are perennials, coming back year after year.
Some are tiny and delicate, while others are large and showy. They come in various colours including white, cream, yellow, orange, pink, red and purple. You can find them in all sorts of habitats, including woodlands, heathlands, grasslands, and even roadside ones.
Alpine Bloom
Alpine bloom can be found in Australia. It is a beautiful flower that has a white or pink colour. Alpine bloom is a member of the Ranunculaceae family. This grows in alpine areas, and it blooms in springtime.
You can find alpine bloom in the following states:
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- New South Wales
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Western Australia
Fields of Dreams
Fields of dreams is one of Australia’s most beautiful and popular attractions. Every spring, these fields come to life with a variety of different colours and types. The types that can be seen are dependent on the location. While some are only found in certain parts of the country, others can be spotted all over Australia.
Sunflower Season
In Australia, the sunflower season typically falls between October and November. This is when wild sunflowers bloom in various parts of the country. There are a few different places you can see in Australia. One of the best places to see sunflowers is in the small town of Walcha in New South Wales. Every year, the city holds a sunflower festival to celebrate the flowers.
In Victoria, you can also see wild sunflowers blooming along the Great Ocean Road. This is one of the most scenic drives in Australia, and the sunflowers make it even more beautiful.
Purple Rain
Purple rain is native to Australia. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family, and its scientific name is Austromyrtus Dulcis. The purple rain is a shrub that grows to about 2-3 meters in height. It has dark green, glossy leaves and clusters of small, white flowers. The purple rain blooms from October to December and is found in eastern Australia, from Queensland to Victoria.
You’ll be treated to a beautiful sight if you’re lucky enough to find a purple rain in the wild. These are relatively rare, so finding one is a special occasion. When you do find one, please take a moment to appreciate its beauty and then be sure to take a photo!
Feeling Stately
Feeling Stately is native to Australia. It is a member of the daisy family, and its scientific name is Olearia axillaris. The plant grows to be about 1-3 meters tall and has white or cream flowers, leaves are long and narrow with a pointy tip. This blooms in spring and summer. It is found in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia.
Sandstone Splendour
The sandstone splendour is a member of the myrtle family and is native to New South Wales. It has a range of colours, including white, pink, and purple and typically blooms from September to November.
Fragrant Wildflowers
Fragrant wildflowers are one of Australia’s most popular. They are often used in perfumes and potpourris and can be found in many different colours, including white, pink, purple, and red. Some famous include Lavender, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, and Rose.
Native Flowering Trees
Native Flowering trees are one of the most beautiful aspects of an Australian garden. There are wide varieties to choose from, providing a stunning display of colour during the spring and summer months. These trees are Bottlebrush, Grevillea, Jacaranda, Wattle and Illawarra Flame Tree.
Native Flowering Hedges
A native flowering hedge is a living fence made up of native plants. Flowering hedges are a beautiful and practical way to create privacy, windbreaks, and noise barriers. They can also provide food and shelter for local wildlife.
There are many reasons to choose a native flowering hedge over a traditional border of introduced plants. Native plants are better adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and maintenance. They also provide a habitat for local wildlife.
History
They are plants that grow in the wild, not cultivated or domesticated. They are often considered weeds, but many are pretty beautiful. Some are native to Australia, while others have been introduced from other countries. Many of the introduced species are now considered to be invasive weeds.
They grow in all sorts of habitats, from rainforests to deserts and can be found in every state and territory of Australia. There are more than 20,000 species of wildflowers in Australia. The most common ones include daisies, dandelions, lantana and Patterson’s curse.
Care
To care, you should:
- Water them regularly, at least once a week
- Keep them in a sunny spot
- Fertilize them monthly
- Deadhead them to encourage new growth
Difference Between a Wildflower and a Weed
Many people believe that wildflowers are simply flowers that grow in the wild, but there is a difference between the two. Wildflowers are indigenous plants that have naturally grown in an area for many years, while weeds are non-native plants introduced to a site and can often choke out native plant life.
Use Wildflowers as an Excuse to See Your State
In Australia, wildflowers are often thought of as something to stop and smell on the side of the road while driving between destinations. But there are plenty of wildflower hotspots around the country where you can spend a few hours – or even a few days – taking in the beauty of these native blooms.
Here are some of the best wildflower hotspots around Australia:
- Mount Tomaree, New South Wales
- Liffey Falls, Tasmania
- Grampians National Park, Victoria
- The Kimberley, Western Australia
- Flinders Chase National Park, South Australia
- Arrowhead Refuge, Queensland
Rules
The rules of wildflower picking are simple:
- Pick only what you need
- Avoid taking wildflowers from nature reserves
- Make sure you know what you’re picking
- Don’t pick endangered species
When it comes to wildflowers, Australia is a veritable treasure trove. With over 20,000 species of native plants, there’s a wildflower to suit every taste.
Interesting Facts
Wildflowers are attractive plants that grow in the wild. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colours and can be found in many habitats worldwide. Here are some fun facts about wildflowers:
- There are more than 20,000 species of wildflowers worldwide!
- The most extensive wildflower in the world is the Rafflesia arnoldii. It can grow up to 3 feet wide and weigh up to 15 pounds!
- The most diminutive wildflower in the world is the Wolffia globosa, which is just 1/200 of an inch wide and weighs less than a speck of dust.
- The oldest wildflower fossil is of a 130-million-year-old flower found in Australia.
- Wildflowers are an essential food source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Many wildflowers are used in traditional medicines.
- Some wildflowers, such as the ghost orchid, are scarce and endangered.
So, the next time you see a wildflower, take a closer look and appreciate the beauty and wonder of these unique plants!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Flower
What is the most common wildflower in Australia?
The most common flower in Australia is the Sturt’s Desert Pea. It can be found in many parts of the country, and it blooms throughout most of the year. The flowers are a beautiful deep red, and they often grow in clumps near the base of bushes or on open plains.
What’s considered a wildflower?
They are typically considered to be any flower that grows without being intentionally cultivated. This can include flowers that grow in meadows, fields, forests, or even along roadsides. Some people might also consider flowers that grow in gardens or yards to be wildflowers, as long as they were not specifically planted by the gardener.
Do wildflowers grow without water?
No, they don’t grow without water. However, they are better at conserving water than many other types of plants. They often have deep roots that can reach underground water sources, and their leaves are generally small and covered in tiny hairs that help reduce evaporation. Some species of wildflowers also produce seeds that can remain dormant for long periods of time, waiting for the right conditions to germinate.
How long do wildflowers take to grow?
Depending on the species, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for wildflowers to grow. Butterfly weed, for example, generally takes about four weeks to germinate and flower. Some other common, like black-eyed Susan and purple coneflower, can take up to two months to germinate and flower.
How long will wildflowers last?
Depending on the species and their growing conditions, wildflowers can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Some of the longest-lasting flowers are those that grow in arid or semi-arid environments, since they have evolved to conserve water. The beautiful desert marigold, for example, can last up to six weeks under the right conditions. On the other hand, some of the shortest-lived flowers are those that grow in moist environments, since they quickly become waterlogged and start to rot.
How long do wildflowers last when cut?
Most will last between 3-7 days when cut, but there are a few types that can last up to 2 weeks.
The most important factor in determining how long a wildflower will last is water. If you can keep the flowers hydrated, they will hold up much better than if they are left to dry out.
Another thing to consider is the type of flower. Some flowers, like lilies, have a very short life span and will only last for a day or two once they’ve been cut. Others, like daisies, have a much longer lifespan and can stay fresh for up to 7 days.
Are wildflowers easy to grow?
Yes, they are very easy to grow – in fact, many people just scatter the seeds on the ground and let nature take its course. However, if you want to thrive them and bloom abundantly, it’s best to plant them in an area that gets plenty of sun and is well-drained. Also, be sure to remove any weeds or grass from the planting area so that the wildflowers can compete successfully for resources (water, sunlight, etc.).
Will wildflowers grow every year?
Yes, they will grow every year as long as there is an adequate supply of water and sunlight. Some years the flowers may be more abundant than others, but they will always return if conditions are right. They are a hardy bunch and can usually withstand a fair amount of abuse. Many species can even thrive in poor soil or on rocky terrain. However, to really flourish they need at least some moisture and plenty of sunlight. So if you’re looking to plant some wildflowers, try to choose a spot that gets plenty of sun and is close to a water source.
Can I plant wildflowers in public?
Yes! Most municipalities have a process for citizens to submit a proposal to plant wildflowers in public spaces.
The benefits of having them in public spaces are many: they beautify the area, they provide habitat for pollinators and other wildlife, and they can help reduce storm water runoff.
To propose planting wildflowers in a public space near you, start by doing some research on your municipality’s website to find out what the process is. Usually there will be an application form to fill out and a submission deadline. Be sure to include information about why you think wildflowers would be a good addition to the area, as well as photos or drawings of what you have in mind. Good luck!
How do you preserve wildflowers in water?
To preserve them in water, you will need to first cut the stem of the flower at an angle using sharp scissors. Next, fill a jar or vase with cold water and add a couple of drops of food coloring (optional). Finally, insert the flowers into the jar or vase and enjoy your beautiful arrangement!
