Gardening with Indigenous Plants in Moreland - Australia

1. Gardening with Indigenous Plants
Moreland City Council
in Moreland

2. Contents
Moreland City Council and its open space
About this booklet 1
Planning and planting the garden 2
Garden Designs 4
Plant Descriptions
Grasses and other tussock plants 8
Small plants 11
Groundcovers 17
Climbers 19
Small and medium shrubs 20
Large shrubs 25
Moreland City Council recognises the years. This booklet, promoting the use Small and medium trees 28
importance of open space in the of indigenous plants in residents’ Index 32
Contacts and further information inside back cover
municipality for its residents, and for the gardens, is part of Moreland City
plants and animals that inhabit the area Council’s program to create sustainable
and travel along the habitat corridors landscapes across the municipality’s About this booklet
that criss-cross the region. Residents’ gardens, streets and parks.
gardens can significantly contribute to This booklet outlines how and why Indigenous plants can be used to
Merri Creek Management Committee indigenous (local native) plants can be create formal and informal settings in
the municipality’s open space, and can (MCMC) works to restore Merri Creek,
provide ‘breathing space’ for the used in home gardens. Indigenous plants gardens. Indigenous plants can be
its parklands and open space to a have evolved and adapted to our climate grown in pots and tubs, and some can
residents, as well as habitat for the healthy living stream and bushland
plants, birds and insects that once and soils. They are both home and food be clipped to form hedges. Lawns of
environment. The municipalities of native grass can be created by planting
for a variety of insects, birds and animals.
naturally occurred in the area. Darebin, Hume, Mitchell, Moreland, These can be attracted to your garden by densely with Weeping Grass and
Moreland City Council has a Whittlesea and Yarra and Friends of planting indigenous plants. Wallaby Grasses (these species are not
commitment to sustainability. In Merri Creek are members of MCMC, described in this booklet; talk to an
landscape terms this translates as providing funding and support for its Many indigenous plants have colourful
wildflowers which can add interest to indigenous plant nursery or see the
sustainable landscapes which: operations. Project grants are received
from State and Federal Government the garden. Most of the plants listed in references listed at the end of this
• are less dependent on resources, this booklet are tolerant of dry summers booklet). Native grass lawns can be
• have aesthetic strengths, grant schemes as well as other sources. mown or can be left unmown
MCMC employs specialist staff and drought, and will only require
• offer broad environmental benefits infrequent watering (once or twice a depending on the style of your garden
such as habitat for fauna. dedicated to improving and promoting
the creek. week during summer) Many will flourish and the uses of the lawn area.
Gardens planted with indigenous (local in the heavy clay soils which are A number of garden design plans are
native) plants contribute to fulfilling Gardening with Indigenous Plants characteristic of the northern suburbs of included in this booklet, as well as
these principles. Residents’ gardens in Moreland was produced for Melbourne, and across the Western details of almost fifty different
landscaped in this manner also celebrate Moreland City Council by Merri Creek Plains of Victoria, with little soil indigenous plants considered well suited
the character of the local environment, Management Committee, with plant treatment or addition of chemicals or to home gardens. At the end of this
help conserve the plants of the area and illustrations by Brian Bainbridge and fertilisers necessary (although some booklet is a list of indigenous nurseries
assist us to connect with the cultural George Stolfo. plants benefit from the addition of small which sell all the plants listed, as well as
history of the land; Wurundjeri (local amounts of native plant fertiliser – see organisations and books which can
Aboriginal clan) land for thousands of Revised and reprinted 2005. Plant Descriptions later in this booklet). provide more information.
1

3. Planning and planting the garden Planning and planting the garden
The City of Moreland lies on the western high density in each square metre of pot-bound, don’t tease the roots of the plant Pruning and weeding
basalt plains of Victoria. Although Moreland planting; see description for each plant later before planting. Place the plant carefully in Pruning, which mimics the grazing of
has a range of different soil types, the in the book for more detail). Provide the hole, and crumble the soil around the wallabies and kangaroos, will encourage
predominant one is derived from volcanic adequate space for any shrubs or trees. plant, firming the soil as you go. Water the denser growth in some plants, will prevent
lava flows thousands of years ago. These soils Many home gardens are too small to plant using 1/3 of a bucket of water. legginess and will promote flowering and
are usually heavy, poorly draining black clay accommodate large trees (check location of new growth. Specific notes for each plant
soils that may become waterlogged in winter, power lines and plumbing before planting). MULCHING
are listed in the plant descriptions in the
and dry and crack in summer. Outcrops of Mulch retains moisture in the soil reducing
PREPARATION following pages.
older sedimentary yellow clays are also the need to water, encourages beneficial soil
common in some areas. Control of weeds is a key element in animals such as worms, and suppresses The common weeds of all home gardens will
successful gardening. It is easier to remove weeds. Mulch can be attractive and increase also invade the indigenous home garden,
The indigenous (local native) plants listed in
weeds before rather than after planting. the habitat values in the garden. and regular weeding is necessary. Mulch
this booklet have evolved to grow and
Remove weeds by hand-weeding, layers minimise weed invasion. Dense
flourish in the clay soils and so soil treatment There are different types of mulch
smothering with mulch (see below), or by plantings of groundcovers and small plants
is usually unnecessary. available; fine pine mulch and eucamulch
careful, targeted, minimal application of may also out-compete most weeds. However
herbicides. Do not dig over the soil before are very popular. These mulches should be
PLANNING laid to form a 10 cm thick layer. For added some weeding will always be necessary.
When establishing a new garden or planting (this can encourage more weeds),
weed suppression, a layer of newspaper Formal gardens and gardens with bare earth
modifying an existing garden it is important but make sure the soil is moist.
at least ten pages thick can be laid under require more intensive maintenance to
to first create a plan to guide planting and
PLANTING the mulch. maintain the sharp lines, boundaries and
other works. You will need to consider:
The best time to plant is in autumn or Jutemat (a commercially available product) block elements of the original design. Such
• sunny / shady patches, • wet / dry areas, spring when the soil is moist and the gardens need more regular pruning, and if
can be used, but may be more difficult to
• soil condition, • high use areas, weather is not too hot. You can plant in there is no mulch, require more regular
lay in a small garden area. Do not use carpet
• informal paths, • garden uses winter but there will not be much growth watering, and more intensive weeding.
(e.g. entertainment, play, quiet underlay based on nylon netting.
due to cold weather. Avoid planting during
enjoyment, habitat). summer as the plants become heat- and ONGOING CARE AND Replacement planting
Collect information about your garden at water-stressed. Purchase healthy plants from MAINTENANCE and mulching
different times of the day and different a nursery that sells indigenous plants of local Using indigenous plants may reduce As the garden establishes, some plants will
seasons of the year. Use this information to provenance (see inside back cover of this maintenance but will not dispense with
booklet). Indigenous plants are often sold as flourish, some may not do so well, perhaps
select the right plants for these areas. it altogether.
“tubestock” (the plants are grown in small because they have been planted in the
Decide on a style for your garden, and select wrong place. If the successes and failures
plants that will be suited to your garden’s square deep pots). The plants are relatively Watering and fertilising
are noted, this knowledge can be used to
spaces. Some design examples are included cheap, and although small when planted, Generally, an indigenous home garden will
plan replacement planting. Ongoing
on the following pages. Work out the develop excellent root systems and are more require infrequent watering and application
tolerant of drought. planting is also necessary to replace any of
number of plants you will need. Use plant of fertilisers. After the initial watering
the shorter lived plants (such as Sticky
size at maturity as a guide to avoid Dig a hole slightly larger than the pot, gently associated with planting, gardens may
require watering once or twice a week Everlasting and Kangaroo Apple).
overcrowding your garden. Grasses and remove the plant from the pot (by holding
small plants can be planted densely, the pot upside down and tapping it, avoid during summer and drought periods. Some Top up the mulch layer every two to five
reducing weed invasion (up to 10 plants for pulling the plant out by the stem). Because plants may respond to a light application of years depending on the type of garden and
medium density and up to 20 plants for plants grown in tubes do not usually become native plant fertilisers. the type of mulch used.
2 3

4. Garden designs Garden designs
COURTYARD GARDEN FORMAL GARDEN
Sun and shade loving plants are arranged around the This design utilises strong lines and shapes, clipped shrubs and constructed
corners of this small courtyard. Brick paving and gravel corner planting beds or bays. The silver-blue leaves of the Common
create contrasting colours and surfaces against which the Everlasting contrasts with the green and yellow of the Rock Correa in the
0 2 4 plants are displayed.
N bays. An arbour is constructed at the end of the garden, draped with Small-
Metres
leafed Clematis, to provide a pleasant, shady place to sit, and to create a
12 12
focal view point from the paved entrance. A fine lawn of Weeping Grass and
8 16 16
16 16 16 8
16
15 16 Wallaby Grass between the bays is maintained by regular mowing. N
16
3 1 14
Regular pruning is required for this dramatic garden. 0 2 4
4 4 2
12 8 2 3
9
Metres
9 14
Arbour
8 4 8
9
17 7
20 14 8 1 1
8
3 7 3
3
8 8
1
6 6
17 20 3
20 Rock 3 3
3 7
9 19 7 8
7 7
12 9
8 14 8 2
2 2
5 2 2 2
11 14 5
2 2 9
9 13 2
9 5
5
2 2 5
18 9 12 5 2 2
9 5 11 8
9
7 2
18 3 2 2
6 Gravel 7 11 Native grass lawn
6 10 14 7 7
9 7 7
7
3 3 3
In pots 6
3 6
Grasses and other tussock plants PAGE Small Plants PAGE
1. Pale Flax Lily 8 10. Common Everlasting 14 3
11. Tufted Bluebell 11 8
Small Plants 3 3 7 7 3
2. Cut Leaf Daisy 13 8
3. Clustered Everlasting 14 Climbers
4 Common Rasp Fern 16 12. Small-leafed Clematis 19
13. Purple Coral Pea 19
Small and medium shrubs
5. Small-leafed Eutaxia 21 Small and medium shrubs Grasses and other tussock plants PAGE Small and medium shrubs PAGE
14. Large-leaf Bush-pea 20 1. Pale Flax Lily 8 5. Large-leaf Bush-pea 20
6. Turkey Bush 24
15. Rock Correa 20 2. Spiny-headed Mat-rush 8 6. Rock Correa 20
Small and medium trees 16. Austral Indigo 23 7. Rosemary Grevillea 22
7. Silver Banksia 28 Small plants
17. Tree Violet 23 3. Common Everlasting 14 Large shrubs
18. Gold-dust Wattle 24 8. Wedge-leaf Hop Bush 26
In ground Large shrubs
Climbers
Small and medium trees
4. Small-leafed Clematis 19
Grasses and other tussock plants 19. Sweet Bursaria 25 9. Silver Banksia 28
8. Spiny-headed Mat-rush 8
Small and medium trees
9. Silky Tussock Grass 10
20. Lightwood 30
4 5

5. Garden designs Garden designs
COTTAGE GARDEN BUSH GARDEN
A birdbath provides a focal point for this flowering garden, created This bush garden contains a more “natural” mixture of grasses,
using dense plantings of small wildflowers and grasses. Informal groundcovers, shrubs and trees. The trees and native grass lawn of Wallaby
gravel paths weave through the garden. Clumped small trees Grass and Weeping Grass (occasionally mown) provide peaceful areas to sit
N provide height contrasts with the wildflowers. Regular watering and enjoy the bush in your own garden. N
0 2 4 and pruning will maintain vigorous growth and flowering.
0 2 4
Metres
Metres
18 22
18 18 18
22 20 22
15 20 20 19
20 18
22 12 10
20 21 21 4 15
4 10 10 15
10 19
12 14 6 16 12
14 15
21 9 18 17 10
20 2 6 19
9 12 15
3 14 2
20 2 19 16
14 9 18
4 6 2 2
3 9 6 17 1 1
20 4 2
2 2 5 5 9
3 10 17
17 8 1 2 5
21 11 14
12 13 19
7 2 18 1
11 19 2
15 17 13 12
8 7 6 11 1 Native grass lawn 2
6 6 1 1 12
12 13 1
10 11 17 3 1
12 7 19 10
1 5 2
11 8 7 12 10 17 3
3 13 1 1
7 3 10 2
11 13 15
6 12 12 1 12
23 13 5 1 14
1 10 12
6 9 1 10 2
5 23 13 2 1 4 2
1 2
14 1
6 5
10 12 8 1 16
19 12 11
23 2 1 1
Gravel path 11 11 11 5 5 9
19 19 14 5 1
24 11 11 6 23 2 Gravel path 16
23 8 11
2 7
24 19 1
19 2 9
6 10 10 11
24 15 1 14
16 3
16 16
11
14 14 10 16
12 2
Grasses and other tussock plants PAGE Groundcovers PAGE 2
1. Pale Flax Lily 8 14. Ruby Saltbush 18 12
2. Feather Spear Grass 9 Climbers
3. Slender Spear Grass 10 15. Small-leafed Clematis 19 Grasses and other tussock plants PAGE Climbers PAGE
4. Silky Tussock Grass 10 16. Purple Coral Pea 19 1. Kangaroo Grass 9 9. Small-leafed Clematis 19
Small Plants 2. Spiny-headed Mat-rush 8 Small and medium shrubs
Small and medium shrubs
5. Common Billy Buttons 11 17. Large-leaf Bush-pea 20 Small Plants 10. Large-leaf Bush-pea 20
6. Tufted Bluebell 11 18. Rock Correa 20 3. Tufted Bluebell 11 11. Rosemary Grevillea 22
7. Tufted Burr Daisy 12 19. Twiggy Daisy-bush 21 4. Cut Leaf Daisy 13 12. Tree Violet 23
8. Basalt Daisy 12 20. Hop Goodenia 22 5. Basalt Daisy 12
9. Clustered Everlasting 14 Large shrubs
21. Austral Indigo 23 6. Clustered Everlasting 14 13. River Bottlebrush 25
10. Common Everlasting 14 7. Sticky Everlasting 15
11. Sticky Everlasting 15 Large shrubs 14. Sweet Bursaria 25
12. Native Flax 15 22. Sweet Bursaria 25 Groundcovers Small and medium trees
8. Milky Beauty Heads 17 15. Yellow Box 29
13. Austral Storks Bill 16 Small and medium trees
23. Lightwood 30 16. Golden Wattle 31
24. Golden Wattle 31
6 7

6. Grasses and other tussock plants
Pale Flax Lily Spiny-headed Mat-rush Kangaroo Grass Feather Spear Grass
Dianella laevis Lomandra longifolia Themeda triandra Austrostipa elegantissima
DESCRIPTION Sword-shaped leaves of blue- Tussock of glossy, strappy bright green Dense grass tussock of fresh green arching A dense grass tussock of stiff, upright, bright
green or light green forming leaves. Each leaf has a ‘bitten off’ tip. leaves. Leaves turn purple with cold weather green leaves. In spring the tussock elongates
a dense tussock. Slender Flower spikes with clusters of small yellow in winter, and in late summer take on an as delicate, intricately branched, soft, hairy
branched flower stems emerge flowers and spiny bracts are produced orange hue. flower-heads emerge. At maturity, flower-heads
in spring, spangled with pale amongst the foliage in spring. Tall flower stems emerge in spring in subtle pink form a shivering, silvery mound.
blue, starry flowers. Orange and Shiny brown seed capsules follow in summer. and purple colours. Flower-heads turn a brassy
gold anthers are prominently orange as the seeds mature in mid-summer.
displayed in the centre of each
flower. Glossy blue berries follow
in summer.
SIZE 60 cm high and across. 80cm high and across. 40cm high and across, flower stems to 1m. 30cm high and across, flower-heads to 60cm.
GARDEN USES Grows best in moist soil and Most vigorous in moist soil with light shade but Grows best in full sun and moist soil but Likes exposed, sunny conditions, requires
dappled light but also copes well copes with a wide range of conditions. Nearly is tolerant of summer drought and light good air movement or wind to prevent
with full sun and dry conditions indestructible once established. Trim ragged shading. It is essential to remove dead leaves mildew. May grow in the dry shade below
once established. May die back leaves to stimulate new growth and a fresh every two years by trimming or burning. native shrubs and trees. Severe pruning in
in summer. appearance. Looks good planted in groups at about 30cm autumn will rejuvenate tussocks.
Looks good planted densely as Plant densely as a hardy ground cover. Plant spacing. Use to support delicate wildflowers. Will do well in rockeries, the edges of retaining
a low maintenance groundcover, individuals as strongly ‘structural’ features Caterpillars of the Common Brown Butterfly and walls and dry exposed slopes. Looks good in
beside driveways and in narrow amongst frothier grasses and wildflowers. native moths eat the leaves. small clumps. Avoid planting where dogs may
spaces. Plant in drifts among Leaves are eaten by some butterflies, the get the sharp seeds in their fur.
native grasses, below native trees flowers are valuable to nectar-feeding This was the dominant grass of the Victorian
Volcanic Plains Grasslands, covering the plains in In its natural habitat this plant helps to slow
or amongst rocks. insects. erosion on dry cliff-faces.
a rich carpet of seasonally changing colours,
Berries are eaten by birds and from purple to green to orange.
Blue-tongue Lizards.
FAMILY LILIACEAE XANTHORRHEACEAE POACEAE POACEAE
8 9

7. Grasses and other tussock plants Small plants
Slender Spear Grass Silky Tussock Grass Common Billy Buttons Tufted Bluebell
Austrostipa scabra ssp falcata Poa morrisii Craspedia paludicola Wahlenbergia communis
DESCRIPTION Medium-sized, dense grass Medium sized rounded grass tussock with Rosettes of softly hairy spoon-shaped leaves. Bright green herb with small narrow leaves, held
tussock of fine greyish leaves. In numerous fine blue-grey leaves that feel softly Flowering stems develop in spring, each topped on slender upright stems that emerge from
spring, shining pink flower-heads velvet to touch. with a golden ball-shaped flower-head. creeping underground stems.
emerge above the foliage. These Purplish-green flower-heads emerge in spring, Delicate sky-blue star shaped flowers on slender
fade to silver as the seeds develop, soon fading to gold as the seeds mature. stalks are produced over spring and summer.
the fine seeds curling into loose
spirals before falling.
SIZE 30cm high and across. 30cm high and across. 20 cm high, flowering stems to 1 m. 30 cm high, may spread over 1 m wide.
GARDEN USES Favours dry soil and exposed Likes moist, well-drained conditions in full sun Likes sunny areas in boggy soil. Will cope with Likes moist, well drained soil but will tolerate
conditions with good air movement or dappled shade with good air movement. Can some light shade and summer drought. Very shade, occasional waterlogging and summer
to prevent mildew. Will grow in cope with periods of waterlogging and summer prone to snail and slug attacks; so avoid dryness. Extra water in summer will keep plants
dry shade below native shrubs. drought. Occasional trimming close to the favoured snail haunts. flowering profusely.
Trimming in autumn will help ground is required to maintain appearance. Looks best grown in groups (about 30cm Plant several in a clump to create a light
retain vigorous tussocks. Attractive planted in drifts or in a mixture with spacing). The flower display is short-lived, so groundcover. Mix with grasses to create a natural
Looks good planted in drifts on other grasses or wildflowers. Seeds are eaten by plant among structural species, such as Knobby wildflower grassland effect. Rejuvenate
exposed banks, retaining walls and parrots and finches. Club Rush, whose foliage always looks effective. established plants by cutting to ground level then
amongst rocks. A good choice for Can be grown in pots kept in a tray of water. watering. The flowers will attract native bees.
windswept areas such as roadsides. The flowers are especially attractive to butterflies.
Keep away from areas where dogs
may get the sharp seeds in their
coats. Good shelter for skinks.
FAMILY POACEAE POACEAE ASTERACEAE CAMPANULACEAE
10 11

8. Small plants
Tufted Burr Daisy Basalt Daisy Cut Leaf Daisy Woolly New Holland Daisy
Calotis scapigera Brachyscome basaltica Brachyscome multifida Vittadinia gracilis
DESCRIPTION Small rosettes of dark green Slender herb with fine upright stems that Small groundcover herb that suckers from Small herb with grey felty leaves and stems. Tiny
leaves. Special stems bud off emerge from creeping underground stems. underground stems, spreading to create a good purple daisy flowers in summer are followed by
new rosettes at their ends and Narrow, bright green leaves are sparsely groundcover. The leaves are small, dark green fluffy seed heads.
establish around the parent scattered on the stems. Delicate white daisy and finely divided.
plant, eventually developing flowers emerge at the top of the plant through Mauve daisy flowers emerge above the foliage
a mat of rosettes. Daisy flowers spring and summer. in spring and summer.
with thin white rays are produced
in spring. These are followed by
spiny burrs that persist on the
plant until caught in the fur of
an animal (or a sock!).
SIZE 10 cm high, flowers to 20cm. about 40 cm high. 20 cm high, spreading to 50cm across. 30 cm high, 40 cm across.
GARDEN USES Likes boggy soil and full sun, Does well in full sun and boggy soil. It copes Favours light shade and dryish soils. Can cope Favours moist, well-drained soil. Will cope with
though will accept light shade with inundation in winter and short periods of with summer drought. summer drought. May grow in the dry shade
and summer drought. Planted in summer drought. The plant may die back in Plant in patches to form a light groundcover. below native trees and shrubs.
ideal conditions this plant soon summer and re-emerge in winter. The plant Best planted in patches where the silver foliage
forms a light groundcover. works best when grown with supporting plants Looks good dotted amongst native grasses,
providing a contrast in form. will make a stronger impression. The foliage
Daisy flowers are especially such as tussock grasses or groundcovers. contrasts well with native grasses.
attractive to butterflies and other The daisy flowers attract nectar-feeding moths The flowers are produced over a long period
and butterflies. and are popular with nectar-feeding insects such The daisy flowers attract native butterflies and
nectar-feeding insects. other nectar-feeding insects.
as butterflies.
FAMILY ASTERACEAE ASTERACEAE ASTERACEAE ASTERACEAE
12 13

9. Small plants
Clustered Everlasting Common Everlasting Sticky Everlasting Native Flax
Chrysocephalum semipapposum Chrysocephalum apiculatum Xerochrysum viscosum Linum marginale
DESCRIPTION Herb with many erect stems and Sprawling herb with silvery hairy leaves. Small Erect herb with narrow, emerald-green, Short lived herb. Erect stems with small, blue-
thin felty grey leaves. Showy clusters of golden everlasting-type daisies are stickyleaves. Brilliant golden everlasting daisies green leaves emerge from the base of the plant.
blossoms made up of many small produced on short ascending stems through the top the plant in summer. Annual or short-lived Delicate sky-blue flowers appear over several
everlasting-type daisies top the warmer months. perennial. weeks at the top of the plant in spring.
stems in spring and summer.
SIZE 40 cm high. 30 cm high. 1 m high and 40 cm across. up to 1 m high.
GARDEN USES Does well in moist, well drained Does best in moist, well drained soil in full sun Prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. It Prefers moist to boggy soils in full sun. It will
soils, resents permanently humid with good air movement. It will tolerate light copes well with summer drought and light readily self-seed into suitable positions, often
conditions. Can grow in the dry shading and summer drought. Cut back plants shading. Looks good planted in groups for a along the edges of paths. It may die back
shade of native trees and shrubs. to rejuvenate them. spectacular floral display that will last through during summer drought then re-sprout
Is well adapted to coping with Makes an excellent groundcover if planted at spring and summer. following rain.
summer drought. Cut back about 40 cm apart. Suits rockeries, retaining The flowers are attractive to nectar-feeding Most spectacular when grown in groups (about
plants to rejuvenate them. walls, dry banks and busy roadsides. insects and the leaves are eaten by the 30 cm spacing). It can be allowed to self-seed to
Grows well in a rockery, retaining The long-lasting flowers are attractive to nectar- caterpillars of the Painted Lady Butterfly. create an informal, wildflower effect.
wall or on a sloping bank. Plant in feeding butterflies and other insects, and
groups for a massed display or provide shelter for skinks.
singly as a contrast to native grasses.
The long-lasting flowers attract
butterflies and other nectar-
feeding insects.
FAMILY ASTERACEAE ASTERACEAE ASTERACEAE LINACEAE
14 15

10. Small plants Groundcovers
Common Rasp Fern Austral Storks Bill Milky Beauty Heads Running Postman
Doodia australis Pelargonium australe Calocephalus lacteus Kennedia prostrata
DESCRIPTION A fern with bright green fronds Soft, hairy herb with rounded, bright green Sprawling groundcover with dense, silvery Trailing groundcover with foliage of three
that have an attractive, red blush leaves held on slender stalks. As the plant foliage and trailing stems. Chalky white, rounded, hairy, wavy-edged leaflets. The plant
when young. The edges of the matures, trailing stems with smaller leaves ball-shaped flowers are produced above the will rapidly cover several square metres in ideal
leaflets are finely saw-toothed. sprawl for up to one metre. Clusters of slender foliage in spring. The seed heads are long- conditions. In spring, clusters of scarlet pea
May spread by underground pink flowers, finely striped with red are lasting, fading to grey over a period of several flowers with yellow centres are produced over
stems to form a groundcover in produced in early summer. As leaves die they months and may still be present when the next several weeks. These are followed by narrow,
ideal conditions. may develop vivid pink, purple and red colours. flowers emerge. hairy pods that pop open on hot summer days.
SIZE 30 cm high. 40 cm high. 20 cm high and up to 1 m across. 5 cm high, may cover more than 1 m across.
GARDEN USES Grows best in damp soil with Grows best in moist, well-drained soil with some Prefers boggy soil and full sun. Will tolerate Favours dry soils and sunny conditions though it
high humidity, light to heavy light shading. some light shading and summer drought. It can will tolerate light shading. Drought tolerant.
shade and sheltered conditions. This species grows particularly well amongst be grown beside pools and in bog gardens. The plant works particularly well on the
It will grow under trees and rockeries and retaining walls. It tolerates The flowers attract nectar-feeding insects such edges of retaining walls, amongst rockeries and
shrubs where these conditions summer drought though it may die back and as butterflies. It creates good daytime and dry slopes.
exist. It will survive periods of reshoot in autumn. The leaves provide an summer-time shelter for frogs near ponds.
summer drought, dying back and The hard seeds are extremely long lived and
interesting contrast to other foliage types and may germinate decades after the parent plant
re-sprouting when rain returns. are pleasantly scented. has died.
Plant in damp areas, in
greenhouses and beside pools or Pea Blue Butterflies eat the seeds within the
drains where humidity is high. pods. Common Blue butterflies eat the leaves.
FAMILY BLECHNACEAE GERANIACEAE ASTERACEAE FABACEAE
16 17

11. Small and medium shrubs
Large-leaf Bush-pea Rock Correa Twiggy Daisy Bush Small-leafed Eutaxia
Pultenaea daphnoides Correa glabra Olearia ramulosa Eutaxia microphylla var microphylla
DESCRIPTION A slender, erect, lightly branched Densely branched, low growing shrub. Foliage Upright shrub, densely covered in small narrow Small shrub with slender branches covered with
shrub. It has a small canopy of is dark green and shiny above, paler and duller green leaves. In spring the shrub produces regularly arranged, tiny blue-green leaves. In
dark green, blunt-ended leaves. below. In autumn and winter, lime-green a showy display of white daisy flowers along spring the plant is liberally covered with small
A short but spectacular floral tubular flowers are produced profusely amongst the branchlets. yellow pea flowers. The closely related Eutaxia
display in spring features bunches the foliage. microphylla has a prostrate, groundcover habit.
of gold and brown pea flowers.
SIZE 3 m high. 1.5 m high, 3m across. 2 m high and 1.5 m across. 1 m high and 50 cm across.
GARDEN USES Prefers moist, well-drained soil, in Grows vigorously in moist, well-drained soil and Thrives in moist, well-drained soil but is tolerant Tolerant of dry soils and full sun. It will grow
full sun or light shade of native light shade but tolerant of dry soil and full sun of dry areas. It prefers full sun or light shade. slowly in the dry shade of mature native trees.
trees, tolerant of summer to deep shade. This is a rapidly growing shrub that will form Very attractive in a rockery, retaining wall or dry
drought. This plant makes an excellent understorey to a low, quick-growing screen. Light pruning sloping bank.
Most attractive planted in small large trees. It can be planted as a hedge and will help maintain bushiness. The plant is short- The plant creates excellent shelter for small
groups about one metre apart. will respond to light trimming with increased lived in most conditions, requiring replacement skinks. Native bees are attracted to the flowers.
It can form a quick growing foliage density. after several years.
screen. It is generally short lived It is a very strong attractor of Honey-eaters in The blossoms are particularly attractive to native
and may require replacing after winter, especially the Eastern Spinebill and New nectar-feeding insects.
several years. Holland Honey-eater.
Various insects feed on the
leaves, nectar and seeds of
this plant.
FAMILY FABACEAE RUTACEAE ASTERACEAE FABACEAE
20 21

12. Small and medium shrubs
Hop Goodenia Rosemary Grevillea Austral Indigo Tree Violet
Goodenia ovata Grevillea rosmarinifolia Indigofera australis Melicytus dentatus
DESCRIPTION Small, rounded shrub with fresh Small prickly shrub with dense, dark green A slender, sprawling small shrub with an open Variable in form. It will be dense, leafy and
green, aromatic foliage. Yellow needle leaves clothing the branches. Pink, habit. The stems hold sparse, blue-green feathery supple in shady moist areas. In dry, exposed sites
flowers appear amongst the spidery flowers are produced amongst the foliage. In spring, sprays of pink pea flowers are it is smaller with rigid, spiny branches and sparse
foliage for much of the year. foliage throughout winter. Plants from the local arrayed on the ends of the branches, followed by foliage. Tiny, creamy-coloured, perfumed
area are smaller and less rampant than most bunches of narrow brown pods. flowers cluster along branches in mid-winter.
garden cultivars of this species. Purplish berries are produced in summer.
SIZE 1 m high and across. 1 m high and 1.5 m across. 1.5 m high. up to 3 m high and across.
GARDEN USES Most vigorous in moist soils in Prefers dry soils in full sun, will tolerate light Prefers moist, well drained soils in a semi-shaded Tolerant of a wide range of conditions from full
semi-shade but also tolerant of shade below native trees and windswept areas position. Will tolerate dry soils, summer drought sun to full shade and dry to wet soils.
drought, waterlogging, dense near roadways. and full sun. Especially valuable as an understorey shrub
shade and full sun. Occasional Responds well to regular pruning to maintain The plant is naturally open and responds well to below trees. Provides an effective barrier or
severe pruning can rejuvenate a bushy appearance or to create a hedged frequent light pruning to promote bushiness. It hedge. May be pruned lightly to promote
a straggly plant. effect. is short lived and may require replacing after bushiness or heavily to rejuvenate a plant.
Looks good in a mass planting, The flowers are a particular favourite of several years. In ideal conditions new plants will Valuable shelter for small birds. The berries
adds interest to shady corners Honey-eaters. The non-flowering period is germinate readily from seed nearby. attract Silvereyes and other fruit-eating birds
and will quickly give a new bush important for maintaining bird diversity (some Makes a greater impact when grown in groups. in summer.
garden an established feel. garden cultivars flower year-round, resulting in Is especially attractive grown amongst rocks and
It is host to a wide range of aggressive honey-eaters setting up a permanent below trees.
insects and provides excellent territory). The prickly foliage shelters small birds The seeds in the pods are eaten by caterpillars
food and shelter for small insect- such as wrens. of butterflies and moths.
eating birds.
FAMILY GOODENIACEAE PROTEACEAE FABACEAE VIOLACEAE
22 23

13. Small and medium shrubs Large shrubs
Turkey Bush Gold-dust Wattle River Bottlebrush Sweet Bursaria
Eremophila deserti Acacia acinacea Callistemon sieberi Bursaria spinosa ssp spinosa
DESCRIPTION Very robust small rounded shrub Erect, small to medium shrub. Attractive bright An erect shrub that tends to be dense and An erect shrub whose spiny branches are
with dense, glossy, bright green green foliage consisting of small rounded leaves bushy in cultivation. Light green, narrow leaves covered sparsely with small green leaves. In
foliage. In summer, tiny delicate regularly arranged along the stems. Some plants are clustered densely at the end of the summer, bunches of tiny, white, sweetly scented
white flowers hang below the tend to sucker, producing a dense thicket of branches, fresh growth is often pink-tinged. flowers are produced profusely. Flowers are
stems. These are followed by plants. In spring, bright, golden blossom covers Chalky white bark clothes the trunk and rapidly followed by persistent brown pods. Bark
creamy coloured fruits. the branches. branches. A scattering of pale cream, on the trunk soon develops a corky, aged
bottlebrush flowers are produced in summer. appearance.
SIZE 1 m high and across. 2 m high and across. 5 m high and 3 m across. up to 6 m high and 1.5 m across.
GARDEN USES Likes dry soil and full sun. Favours dry soil and full sun, will tolerate light Favours moist or waterlogged soils in full sun. Favours dry soils and full sun, will tolerate moist
Tolerant of the light shade below shading and moist, well-drained soil. Wind Will tolerate semi-shade and the light shade of soils, shade and drought.
native trees. Very drought and tolerant and copes with summer drought. native trees. Tolerates summer drought. Makes A good feature ‘tree’ in a small garden since its
wind tolerant once established. Pruning established shrubs to the ground can a quick-growing screen. Can be severely pruned narrow, sparse canopy permits under-planting.
The foliage retains a fresh green encourage fresh stems and suckering. to encourage bushiness or strategically pruned The trunk is an attractive feature and strategic
appearance throughout summer. to display trunk and branches. pruning can highlight this. Alternatively, plant in
Makes an excellent groundcover Looks good as a planting below established
trees, on dry exposed slopes. Flowers attract nectar-feeding birds and insects, groups and prune to promote bushiness for
below native trees and can be the dense foliage and flaky bark make good a hedge or screen.
grown as a low hedge. Light Blossom and seedpods attract a large variety hunting grounds for insect-eating birds.
trimming promotes bushiness. of native insects and the animals that feed The flowers attract butterflies and beetles.
Fruits are eaten by birds. upon them.
FAMILY MYOPORACEAE MIMOSACEAE MYRTACEAE PITTOSPORACEAE
24 25

14. Large shrubs
Wedge-leaf Hop Bush Kangaroo Apple Slender Pomaderris Woolly Tea-tree
Dodonea viscosa Solanum laciniatum Pomaderris racemosa Leptospermum lanigerum
DESCRIPTION Dense rounded shrub with glossy, A very fast growing shrub with dense, dark Erect slender shrub. The foliage is dark green A large sprawling shrub. The dense foliage is
mid-green foliage. Older shrubs green, glossy foliage. The large leaves may have and undersurfaces of the leaves are pale and a silvery blue colour. White flowers festoon the
develop sparse crowns and the up to four pointed lobes. Attractive violet felted. Heads of tiny, cream-coloured flowers are outer branches in summer, followed by woolly
twisted trunk covered in fissured flowers are produced over several months in produced in spring. coated, woody fruits.
grey bark becomes obvious. Tiny spring and summer. Egg-shaped fruit follow,
greenish flowers are followed by maturing from green to yellow to orange.
papery red or purple pods.
SIZE 4 m high and across. 3 m high and across. 3 m high and 2 m across. 3 m high and 4 m across.
GARDEN USES Favours dry soils, full sun and Favours moist, well-drained soils and dappled Prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun or Favours moist soil in full sun. Can cope with
exposed conditions. Tolerant of light. May tolerate summer drought and full sun light shade, will tolerate summer drought and medium to full shade and occasional soil
moist, well-drained soils and light to full shade. full shade. dryness. May die in severe summer drought.
to medium shade. Older plants tend to sprawl and will smother This species makes a fine screening plant. It can This species is useful for run-off areas, boggy
A useful, fast growing shrub, smaller plants or weeds below them. Can make be lightly pruned to promote bushiness or sites or sides of ditches. Light pruning may be
especially in the shade of native an attractive feature plant though it is usually strategically pruned to reveal the fine grey bark used to promote bushiness.
trees or on dry exposed slopes. short-lived and will require replacing after of the trunk. The dense canopy is excellent shelter and
Can form a dense screen or several years. The flowers attract nectar-feeding insects, the foraging site for small insect-eating birds. Insects
hedge. May be lightly pruned to The fruits are eaten by possums and by native dense canopy is the right height for Ringtail are attracted to the nectar of the flowers.
promote bushiness. and introduced birds. Possums to nest within.
Makes an excellent shelter for
small birds such as wrens.
FAMILY SAPINDACEAE SOLANACEAE RHAMNACEAE MYRTACEAE
26 27