The wildflower season in Western Australia remains one of the most dazzling natural attractions in the state, drawing in visitors every year to marvel at the colourful spectacle.
Beginning in the north in June, and ending of November down the south coast, the season sees more than 12,000 species of wildflowers bursting into bloom.
Hunting out these botanical wonders is a fascinating experience, but if you’re not sure where to start, it pays to ask the insiders. We speak to three floral experts about their favourite Western Australian wildflowers and the best places to discover them.
Helen Ansell: Wreath Flowers and Native Blue Cornflowers
Hailing from Mullewa, artist Helen Ansell says she’s fortunate to live in the heart of “Wildflower Country”. Her stunning paintings capture the beauty of the state’s native flora, with one of her favourites being the Wreath Flower (Leschenaultia macrantha).
“I love that they look like colourful wreaths, laid as tributes to the desert around them. I am lucky to have these beauties only a stone’s throw from my backyard,” she says. Unique to Western Australia, these flowers only grow in a handful of places in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia, namely Pindar, Mullewa and Perenjori.
The Native Blue Cornflower (Brunonia australis) is another favourite. While these delicate blue flowers grow across Australia, Ansell says there’s something special about seeing them grow in the state’s breathtaking red desert.
Rebecca Const: Yellow Feather Flower and Heart-leaf Flame Pea
Talented florist and Creative Director of Fox and Rabbit Florist in Perth, Rebecca Const says the bright, yellow variety of Verticordia Chrysantha, with its distinct ‘feathered’ look is her current favourite. This floral gem grows as a low shrub and flowers throughout Spring.
The florist also adores the Heart-leaf Flame Pea (Chorizema cordatum). “Not a cut flower, but this beautiful bright orange and hot pink pea cannot help but turn heads. I just had to include it on my list,” she says.
This also grows as a low shrub and can be found clinging to rock formations in the forests of Western Australia’s Southwest.
Matthew Landers: Boronia
One of Australia’s most renowned floral designers, Matthew Landers grew up in Western Australia and has a strong connection to the state’s native flora. The Boronia (Boronia heterophylla), with its gorgeous shades of pink, white and brown, is his favourite of Western Australia’s wildflowers.
“The intoxicating fragrance and short season makes it such a unique natural treasure,” he says. You can find bursts of Boronia throughout Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth, and at the annual Everlasting Kings Park Festival.
Discover more tips and guides to Western Australia’s wildflower season at westernaustralia.com
