Discover the Best Native Plants for Thriving Gardens in Adelaide

Best Native Plants for Adelaide Gardens

Given Adelaide’s hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, native plants are a great addition to any garden. They flourish in the natural environment, require less water, and draw in local wildlife. The top native plants for your Adelaide garden are listed here.

Kangaroo Paw - Anigozanthos

This iconic Australian plant is a favourite for its colourful, tubular blossoms that attract bees and birds. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Most varieties bloom from late winter through early summer, depending on the climate. Kangaroo Paws can be planted almost year-round, except during the peak of summer when extreme heat can stress young plants. 

Bottlebrush - Callistemon

A hardy, low maintenance shrub, the Bottlebrush is known for its striking red, pink, or yellow flowers, which are a magnet for bees and nectar-feeding birds. It grows well in various soil types, provided they are not highly alkaline. For best flowering results, plant it in full sun. Applying a low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring and autumn, along with mulching, helps retain moisture and minimise weeds. 

Grevillea - Grevillea spp.

Available in ground cover, shrub, and small tree varieties, Grevilleas add year-round colour to your garden with their bright, nectar-rich flowers. They are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering once planted. However, they do need soils with good drainage to prevent root rot. For the healthiest growth, plant Grevilleas in an area with at least half a day of direct sunlight.

Native Pigface - Carpobrotus rossii

This hardy, low-growing succulent is ideal as ground cover or for controlling soil erosion, particularly in sandy or coastal areas. Its beautiful purple flowers bloom in spring and summer, adding a splash of colour to your garden. Native Pigface thrives in full sun and requires little water, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscaping. 

Golden Wattle - Acacia pycnantha

As Australia’s national flower, Golden Wattle is a fast-growing tree adorned with fragrant, bright yellow blossoms. It is highly drought-tolerant and provides a habitat for native birds and insects. This resilient tree does best in well-draining soil and full sun, making it a striking addition to any native garden. 

Blue Flax Lily - Dianella revoluta

A hardy, grass-like plant, Blue Flax Lily is ideal for garden borders and undergrowth. It produces delicate blue flowers followed by deep purple berries that attract birds. Adaptable to a variety of soil types, this plant is low-maintenance and can withstand periods of drought once established. 

Coastal Rosemary - Westringia fruticosa

This hardy, drought-resistant shrub features small white or pale blue flowers and is great for hedging or filling garden beds. It flourishes in coastal conditions and tolerates poor soils, making it a reliable choice for low-maintenance landscaping in Adelaide. 

Benefits of Native Plants

Native plants are water-efficient, they require less watering once established. They are low-maintenance as they are adapted to the local soil and climate. They are wildlife-friendly and support bees, butterflies, and native birds.

Get Landscaping Advice

Need help designing a native Australian garden? Contact Milestone Landscapes for expert advice on native plant selection and sustainable landscaping in Adelaide!