Wildflower explosion across Australia’s West
Western Australia is bursting into a cacophony of colour as warmer weather and late rains accelerate the curtain-raising of the state’s spectacular annual show.
The northern Pilbara and Kimberley regions are already patchworks of vivid displays following near perfect conditions that have seen the traditionally red-soil landscapes burst dramatically into full-colour.
Western Australia is the nation’s wildflower capital, showcasing more than 12,000 species of stunning native flora - more than the rest of Australia combined – so it’s no surprise that thousands of visitors from around the world make the pilgrimage each year to enjoy nature’s golden spectacle.
WA’s expansive landmass and diversity of micro-climates blesses the state with a prolonged season, with the first blooms coming to life around June and the last colours clinging on in the south until the real heat of summer begins in November and December.
Wildflower enthusiasts are already reporting the early arrival of the season’s first blooms throughout the north of the state, extending down into the midwest coast and central goldfields regions, sometimes blanketing entire landscapes in stunning colours, that are often likened to ‘golden snowfields’.
The Pilbara is teeming with yellow native hibiscus, bluebells and native fuschias, while the central coast hinterlands of Kalbarri National Park are painted in banksias, blood-red Eucalyptus blossoms and delicate kangaroo paws.
The south west regions are also in bloom with tiny orchids and honey-pots peeping through the southern forests; a spectacle made even more breathtaking when set against green fields lush from winter rains and rolling hills of golden canola.
Perth city is also alive with a dazzling array of flowers, with the expansive 400-hectare botanic garden in Kings Park home to around 1700 native species. The parklands are free to explore, with gardening staff busily preparing for the city’s annual wildflower in late September.
There are dozens of wildflower tour options for those seeking a guided experience, while independent travellers can pick up the latest wildflower brochure from any WA visitor centre, or download a copy at: http://www.wildflowerswa.com
The site is packed with useful information and a range of tools including maps, walking trails, suggested itineraries, ‘spotter guides’ and a calendar of wildflower events and festivals.