Carnival of Flowers

Anigozanthos cv. (Kangaroo Paw)

Kangaroo paws grow from rhizomes tucked underground, holding onto water and nutrients for dry spells. The flower stalks unfurl upwards and fan out in a burst of colour-cylindrical buds covered in dense, velvety hairs that shimmer in the light. When those buds open, they spread out into six little lobes that look just like a paw reaching out.

Xerochrysum cv. (Strawflower)

This Aussie native is named for its straw-like bracts-stiff, papery "petals" encircling the central disk, like something out of a summer craft project. Found across Australia from rainforest margins to deserts-they lure native bugs with their bright bracts and serve as food for butterfly and moth larvae. 

Grevillea sp.

Grevillea defies traditional floral norms of large, showy petals with long, slender styles that extend in a spidery or brush-like appearance. From broader, fern-like to narrow, needle-like shapes, its diverse leaves have a waxy coating to minimise water loss in their typically arid environments. 

Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka Myrtle)

Manuka, a hardy evergreen shrub from Southeast Australia and New Zealand, has dense branches and small needle-like leaves that release fragrant oil when crushed. European honey bees flock to its delicate blossoms, producing the coveted antibacterial manuka honey.

Antirrhinum cv. (Snapdragon)

Snapdragons grow on tall, upright spikes, each bearing numerous blooms arranged in a staggered pattern. Their flowers are bilaterally symmetrical and tubular, featuring two distinct "lips", designed so only the buffest bees can open them. If you gently squeeze the base of the flower, it snaps open and shuts like a dragon's mouth.

Umonium suworowii (Rat Tail Statice)

Native to the windswept plains of Central Asia, Limonium suworowii, also known as rat tail statice or pink pokers, is found in floral arrangements, particularly those meant to last. The plant's slender spires crane towards the sky, branching out like multiple candelabras, each one adorned with a cascade of tiny rosy-mauve florets.