Search a wide range of plants for the Canberra region

Native, Locally Occurring – EVERGREEN

2-3m high x 2-3m wide

Uses: Ornamental, habitat restoration, hedge, fragrant

Ecological function: Attracts insects and provides shelter for birds

Description: Upright shrub with aromatic foliage and abundant white or pale pink flowers. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought and frost tolerant.

Cultivars available: ‘Prostrate’

Native, Occurs QLD, NSW, VIC – EVERGREEN

1.5m high x 1m wide

Uses: Ornamental, native gardens, erosion control

Ecological function: Attracts pollinators like bees

Description: Shrub with fern-like leaves and spikes of pink to purple flowers. Prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained soil; drought-tolerant. Prune after flowering.

Native, Locally Occurring – EVERGREEN

2-4m high x 2-4m wide

Uses: Ornamental, shade gardens, understorey planting

Ecological function: Provides habitat for wildlife, especially in moist, shaded environments

Ngunnawal use: The white pith from within the trunk can be eaten raw or cooked: harvestable without killing the fern. Young fronds can be eaten (expert advice essential prior to eating this plant). Fronds can be used for temporary shelter construction.

Description: A slow growing, large fern with a thick, fibrous trunk and long, arching green fronds. Prefers moist, shaded areas and well-drained soil, frost tolerant. Requires supplementary watering during hot spells.

Native, Locally Occurring

0.2-0.5m high x 0.1-0.2m wide

Uses: Ornamental, rockeries, native gardens

Ecological function: Attracts pollinators with its unique pollination mechanism

Description: Clump-forming perennial with grass-like leaves and pink or mauve flowers on tall stems, featuring a trigger-like column that dusts pollinators with pollen. Prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, sandy soil.

Hybrid – EVERGREEN

1-3m high x 1-2m wide

Uses: Ornamental, native gardens, screening

Ecological function: Attracts pollinators

Description: Shrub with vibrant, tubular flowers, often in shades of pink or purple, and silvery-green foliage. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought-tolerant.

Native, Locally Occurring – EVERGREEN

Climbing or trailing, up to 2-4m long

Uses: Ornamental, native gardens, climber

Ecological function: Provides habitat and food for insects and birds

Ngunnawal use: The licorice flavoured roots can be chewed as a sweet.

Description: Twining climber with slender stems, small leaves, and pea-like, purple flowers. Prefers partial shade to full sun and well-drained soil.