Resources

Here are some Noosa native plant identification sheets sent out this month on social media. The aim is to give residents and visitors a better idea of our true natural flora.

Saw sedges (Gahnia sp.) are widespread in coastal heath and eucalypt forests in the Noosa area. They are very ornamental, with strappy green foliage, and spikes which are covered in reddish to brownish fruits. Gahnia sp. are butterfly hosts. There are 3 species of Gahnia occurring locally: Gahnia sieberiana, Gahnia clarkei, and Gahnia aspera.

Quite a few Noosa native plants are flowering and of interest this December and these Plant Sheets detail the more obvious ones. Local gardeners are adding more and more local plants to their gardens and the wildlife is feeling right at home. Urban gardens, council landscaping and surrounding bushland provide links that encourage Noosa’s natural look.

After Eucalyptus, the Lilly Pilly is probably the most recognised Australian plant. More than just an attractive plant, it’s a valuable food source and there is a type for every garden.

Ho Ho Ho and Merry Christmas. I do hope you get the chance to hang some Mistletoe this Christmas. The romantic idea of kissing underneath it dates to centuries old folklore.

Macarangas are sometimes mistakenly referred to as weeds. They are in fact local native trees that are an important food source for wildlife and can be very useful in a suburban garden.