Australia Flowers in Summer
>> Jun 5, 2012
Australian is home to many native
wildflowers and also many beautiful flowers
have been introduced. During summer in Australia we are lucky enough to host a
magnificent display of colour and life from a range of flowering plants. Summer
is the time when we get used to seeing exotic blooms like the Bougainvillea
draped over gardens and off balconies. Unique native wildflowers explode across
treetops and the local flower shops are bursting with colour and variety. If
you are planning to go shopping for flowers online, take
a drive to the local flower market or into the country, here are some exquisite
flowers to look out for in Australia.
What’s in Season?
Calla Lily
The Calla Lily is arguably the
simplest and most beautiful summer flower. The Calla Lily blooms out the top of
a thick lime green stem and presents into a trumpet shape. The top edges fold
back around like a scroll exposing the yellow stamen. Calla Lilies make
extremely elegant cut flower arrangements, especially in all white and bring a
sense of peace and tranquillity into your home. They are also quite easy to
keep in the garden.
Hibiscus
The Hibiscus enjoys both tropical
and sub tropical climates and grows very well in parts of Australia. The plant
produces flowers that range from red through to light pinks, yellow, orange and
purple.
Bougainvillea
The Bougainvillea is a native of
South America, mainly from Brazil and Peru. Sir Joseph Banks discovered this
vine on the Endeavour Voyage to Botany Bay. During the Australian Summer the
Bougainvillea blooms and the flowers produced range from deep reds through to
hot pink, lighter pinks, orange and purple.
Frangipani
The Frangipani is native to parts
of Central and South America and are known generally for their existence in
exotic locations. Many Pacific Island cultures use them to make leis and
Polynesian women use them symbolically as decorations to indicate weather or
not they are married. They produce a fragrance during the night to attract
moths in order to reproduce however bear no pollen. The Frangipani flower is
quite beautiful and is a popular choice for summer weddings.
Keeping Cut Flowers Fresh
Extend the life of fresh flowers
during the hot summer months by ensuring you replenish water regularly. Flowers
drink more during hot, dry days and re-filling the vase at night is a good
idea. Always cut the stems before arranging the flowers in the vase. Strip away
any extra foliage as the greenery reacting to the water will speed up the
wilting process. Adding preservative to the water will keep them fresh longer
and it is usually available at the florist. Sugar or a vitamin tablet mixed
into the water can help revive wilting flowers if you are unable to get
preservative. Always keep cut flowers away from direct sunlight and out of the
air-conditioners line of fire.
Native Australian Wildflowers
Wheel of Fire
Stenocarpus Sinuatus is the
correct name for this Australian native tree. The flowers bloom during late
summer and are shaped like a wheel or barrel. Flowers are coloured red and
usually hide within the leaves of the tree so a closer look is required to take
in the full splendour of the bloom.
Golden Penda