Plants

Plants form the foundation of every successful Australian garden. Whether you are building privacy, adding colour, creating structure or softening hard landscaping, choosing the right plants for Australian conditions is critical. This collection includes evergreen and deciduous varieties suited to a wide range of climates across the country - from coastal exposure and sandy soils to inland heat and heavier clay. Each plant is selected for reliability, strong growth habits and long-term performance in real-world environments. From compact garden bed fillers to structural shrubs and statement foliage, these plants are suited to residential gardens, new builds and large-scale landscape projects across most of Australia.

Why plants perform well in Australian gardens

Australia’s climate demands resilience. High UV levels, extended summers and inconsistent rainfall can quickly stress poorly chosen species. Well-selected plants not only survive these conditions but improve soil health and overall garden stability.

Across most regions, quality landscape plants:

• Create structure and definition in garden beds
• Improve privacy and soften fencing
• Add seasonal colour and texture
• Support biodiversity and pollinators
• Help regulate soil temperature through ground coverage

Evergreen plants are particularly popular in warmer climates where year-round greenery is preferred. Deciduous options are often used in cooler regions to introduce seasonal variation and allow winter sunlight.

For vertical structure and canopy layering, combine shrubs and groundcovers with selections from our Trees collection. For denser boundary planting, explore our Screening Plants range.

Where plants work best in landscape design

Garden beds and borders

Shrubs and flowering plants form the backbone of structured garden beds. Layering taller plants at the rear with compact varieties at the front creates depth and visual balance.

Screening and privacy

Medium-height plants can form informal hedges and privacy buffers, particularly in suburban settings where space is limited.

Feature planting

Foliage contrast and architectural form allow individual plants to act as focal points in courtyards, entrances and around outdoor living areas.

Coastal and exposed sites

Salt-tolerant and wind-hardy varieties perform well in coastal environments when selected carefully.

For projects requiring larger scale impact, complement planting schemes with Advanced Trees to create layered height and long-term canopy.

Choosing the right plants for Australian conditions

Plant selection should prioritise climate compatibility and function.

Climate and exposure

Australia includes subtropical, temperate and semi-arid regions. Coastal properties require salt tolerance. Inland areas demand heat resilience. Southern regions may experience frost.

Select plants suited to your local environment rather than focusing solely on appearance.

Soil type and drainage

Heavy clay soils are common in many developments. Sandy soils dominate near the coast. Good drainage is essential for most species.

Improving soil with organic matter before planting significantly improves establishment and long-term growth.

Sunlight requirements

Full sun varieties perform best in open exposures. Partial shade plants suit courtyard gardens and areas protected by larger trees or buildings.

Maintenance expectations

Some plants require regular pruning to maintain shape. Others grow naturally compact with minimal intervention. Choose species aligned with your maintenance capacity.

For drought resilience and environmental performance, consider integrating suitable options from our Native Plants collection.

Practical buying tips

1. Define the purpose first - privacy, colour, structure or ground coverage.
2. Measure available space and check mature width and height before purchasing.
3. Consider planting in groups of odd numbers for a natural look.
4. Prepare soil properly before installation. Loosen compacted ground and incorporate compost.
5. Water consistently during the establishment period, particularly in warm climates.

Evergreen vs deciduous plants

Evergreen plants retain foliage year-round and are widely used for structure and privacy. They are especially suited to warmer climates where consistent greenery is preferred.

Deciduous plants shed leaves seasonally. In cooler regions, this can provide winter sunlight while still offering summer coverage.

Both types have a place in Australian gardens depending on climate and design goals.

Establishing plants successfully

Strong establishment determines long-term performance.

• Dig planting holes wider than the pot size
• Avoid planting too deeply
• Backfill with improved soil rather than pure potting mix
• Water thoroughly after planting
• Apply mulch to regulate soil temperature and suppress weeds

Across most of Australia, autumn and spring are ideal planting seasons. In warmer regions, winter planting is also effective.

Frequently asked questions

How often should new plants be watered?

During the first growing season, consistent watering is essential. Frequency depends on climate and soil type, but deep watering is generally more effective than light surface watering.

Can plants improve property value?

Well-designed planting improves street appeal and outdoor usability, which can positively influence long-term property perception.

Are native plants easier to maintain?

Many Australian native plants are adapted to local conditions and can be lower maintenance once established, though all plants require care during early growth.

How close should plants be planted together?

Spacing depends on mature width. Planting slightly closer than full mature spread helps achieve quicker canopy coverage without excessive competition.

Do all plants require fertiliser?

Most benefit from improved soil and light feeding during active growth periods. Always match fertiliser to plant type.

Plants provide the structure, texture and life that define Australian gardens. When selected carefully and planted correctly, they create layered, resilient landscapes suited to diverse climates and soil conditions.