The Southern Forests & Valleys region is known for its diverse flora, including native wildflowers that bloom during the spring season.
Here’s some of the top places you can visit Wildflowers throughout the region:
Balingup
Orchid enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with more than 150 species to be found throughout the year from the first rains in autumn to when the waterways dry in summer. Around Balingup, the forests and heathlands literally bloom with over 50 species of orchids including Spider Orchids, Beard Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Hammer and Flying Duck Orchids, Enamel Orchids, Rabbit Orchids, Mignonette and Leek Orchids, Bird Orchids and Sun Orchids. Orchid heaven!
Many of our species can be spotted in the National Parks, State Forests, Nature Reserves and along the roadsides. However, to make the most of it you will need to be prepared to get out of the car and have a walk around – please stay on designated walk trails or kangaroo paths to avoid trampling delicate emerging plants and buds.
The Golden Valley Tree Park covers 60 hectares of land and is not only renowned for its impressive collection of trees but also for the wildflowers that carpet its grounds. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park and spot different types of wildflowers depending on the season. The park boasts a vibrant array of blooms, particularly during spring. As you stroll through the park, you’ll encounter a tapestry of colourful wildflowers such as Cowslips, Granny’s Bonnets, King-in-his-Carriage Orchids, and Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids. These floral displays, set amidst the park’s picturesque landscape, create a captivating sight for visitors to enjoy.
In Spring, the Racecourse Flora Reserve becomes a blaze of colour, with an amazing abundance and diversity of wildflowers. Each week of spring sees change until early December. Banksia grandis (Bull Banksia) is one of the last plants to flower, with its wonderful bright yellow candles, which then form into the well-known Banksia ‘see’ or ‘nut’. This flora reserve is a significant area of protected bushland, virtually an island in a sea of farmland.
Boyup Brook
Swale Drains offers a unique setting to appreciate the beauty of wildflowers in a wetland environment. These drainage channels, designed to manage water flow, provide an ideal habitat for various plant species, including native wildflowers. As you explore the Swale Drains, you may encounter an array of blooms, such as Peas, Bearded Heaths, Banksias, and displays of White Clematis and Native Wisteria. The swampy fringes near the drains are also worth exploring, as they may reveal the presence of Albany Pitcher Plants and Hare Orchids during autumn. The Swale Drains in Boyup Brook present an opportunity to witness the diverse flora that thrives in wetland ecosystems and appreciate the delicate beauty of wildflowers in this unique setting.
Kura Kartaga Langa Walk Trail, meaning ‘Place of Special Memories’ was the name given to this nature reserve by the Nyoongar people who grew up around Boyup Brook. Behind the old Railway Buildings, across the footbridge, a short trail leads to a tranquil rock pool, which is the Boyup Brook Billabong. Leading to the west from the path to the Billabong along the banks of the Boyup Brook is the Kura Kartaga Langa walk trail, taking no more than 15 minutes from beginning to end. The areas’ peaceful ambiance and pristine natural surroundings provide an ideal habitat for a variety of species. Look out for Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, Cherry Spiders, Broad-lipped Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids.
The Bicentennial Walk trail is an easy six kilometre walk that traverses the town boundary of Boyup Brook. It passes through bush reserves, along the banks of the Blackwood River and the Boyup Brook. There are many wildflowers along this well kept path.
Flora Roads: Many of the rural roads have long tracts of bush with good displays of wildflowers. Those of special interest are:
- Nollajup Nature Reserve – A large reserve on the corner of Brown Seymore Road and Jayes Road.
- Reservoir Road Water Catchment Area – A very large area servicing the old town dam. Lots to see, both sides of the road
- Six Mile Road Nature Reserve – One of the smaller reserves but well endowed with wild flowers.
- Mayanup Crown Land – a large tract from the end of the Mayanup Sports Ground and along the Cranbrook Road.
- Wahkinup Nature Reserve – Junction of Wahkinup Road and Lower Blackwood Road
- Nth Kulikup Nature Reserve – along the Kulikup North Road between Red Hill Road and Balgarup Road.
- Tonebridge – Go past the picnic area and turn left at Terrace Road.
Bridgetown
Bridgetown Jarrah Park is a charming natural haven brimming with wildflowers. As you explore the park, you’ll encounter a variety of species, including Jarrah Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids, and Pterostylis orchids. These beautiful blooms thrive in the park’s diverse ecosystem, nestled among the jarrah trees. Take the time to appreciate the intricacy and uniqueness of each flower, ensuring you tread lightly and respect the park’s fragile environment.
Hester Forest, is a picturesque location where wildflowers abound. This enchanting forest is home to a diverse range of floral treasures. Delicate Lobelias, Scaevolas, Tree Hovea, White Clematis, Karri Flame Pea, Water Bush, Soap Bush, Hibbertia, and Tassel Bush can be found lining the waterways and adorning the forest floor. Stroll through the forest on one of the walk trails, soaking in the beauty of these wildflowers against the backdrop of towering trees.
Although small, Winnejup Reserve has conservation value for the variety of habitats and over 120 plant species that are represented within its boundaries. Flooded Gums, with an understorey of Tea Tree and Swamp Paperbark thickets, fringe the long river pool. The plant community of the high rocky outcrop is in condition and includes White Myrtle, Verticordia, Cowslip Orchids, Common Donkey Orchids and the Jug Orchid. Sweet Quandong, Santalum acuminatum, occurs on the shallow soils of the rocky outcrop, next to the walk trail. This tall shrub to small tree is summer flowering, with bright red edible fruit being present from late winter to spring. It is an uncommon plant in our area and a close relative of Sandalwood.
Additionally, Bridgetown based company Southern Flora Tours offers private tours in a comfortable 4WD vehicle for one to three adult, or two adults and two children. Explore these fascinating habitats with botanist Erica Shedley, photograph tiny trigger plants or magnificent Karri trees. Experience the delight in connecting with the colourful Parrots, Robins, Fairy-wrens and Honeyeaters. Ponder the daily lives of the original inhabitants, the Noongar aboriginals, as you encounter ancient Grasstrees, Banksias and Zamias. Learn about wildlife ecology and the landscapes as you wander in these diverse habitats.
Greenbushes
Greenbushes Pool is in a scenic natural area known for its native vegetation and tranquil surroundings. Exploring the area around Greenbushes Pool and walking along its trails can provide opportunities to spot wildflowers during the blooming season.
Walk Trails treats visitors to a charming showcase of wildflowers. As you traverse the trails, you’ll encounter a variety of species that adorn the landscape with their vibrant colours. Look out for the delicate beauty of Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, and Cherry Spiders, which bloom during the spring months. The trails offer a scenic and immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the natural wonders of the region. Trails include the Greenbushes Walk Loop, Greenbushes Heritage Amble, Greenbushes Pool Boardwalk trail, New Zealand Gully walk trail and the Waterbird walk trail.
Manjimup
Discover the native flora and fauna of the South West as you wander the extensive native bushlands in Manjimup Heritage Park. With over 12 hectares of parkland to explore, you will discover different varieties of trees, flowers and animals as you visit through changing seasons. Visit during August to November and keep your eyes peeled for at least 30 species of wildflowers native to the area.
Four Aces is an area where wildflowers flourish, providing a visual feast for visitors. The landscape is adorned with a variety of blooms, including Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage, Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids. These vibrant wildflowers bring colour and life to the natural surroundings, offering a delightful experience for nature lovers. Explore the area and revel in the beauty of the wildflowers that thrive in the Four Aces region.
Foresters Wood is a nature reserve that showcases the beauty of Western Australia’s wildflowers. This enchanting woodland area provides a habitat for a diverse range of native blooms. As you explore the trails of Foresters Wood, you may come across a variety of wildflowers, including Spider Orchids, Helmet Orchids, Midge Orchids, as well as other species like Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, and Cherry Spiders. The tranquil atmosphere of Foresters Wood, combined with the vibrant colours and delicate forms of the wildflowers, creates a truly immersive and captivating experience for visitors.
Lake Muir is a picturesque location known for its stunning wildflower displays. The area surrounding the lake bursts with vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom in abundance. Visitors can expect to find an array of species, including Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, Cherry Spiders, and many more.
The Diamond Tree Lookout Walk, near Manjimup, showcases the region’s wildflower diversity. The walk provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the wildflowers while enjoying the beauty of the towering karri trees and the breathtaking vistas that unfold before you. Keep an eye out for delicate Spider Orchids, Helmet Orchids, and Midge Orchids that thrive in the surrounding forest.
The One Tree Bridge area is a picturesque location where wildflowers grace the landscape with their presence. As you explore the area, you’ll encounter a variety of blooms from Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, Cherry Spiders, Broad-lipped Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Flying Duck Orchids, Hammer Orchids, Pimeleas, and Cutleaf Hibbertia. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings and appreciate the charm of these delightful wildflowers.
The Deanmill Heritage Trail travels through an area where wildflowers thrive in abundance, including delicate Spider Orchids, Helmet Orchids, and Midge Orchids. Take a leisurely walk through the lush surroundings and marvel at the intricate details and vibrant colours of these remarkable wildflowers.
Quinninup is a small town south of Manjimup. As you explore the town, you’ll encounter a diverse range of species, including the Spider, Flying Duck, Donkey, Pink Fairy and Cowslip orchids. The town’s picturesque surroundings provide a picturesque backdrop for these beautiful blooms. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the Karri Lake, King Karri or Orchid walk trails and marvel at the unique and delicate wildflowers that adorn the landscape.
Nannup
Kondil Wildflower Park is a haven for wildflower enthusiasts. The park features a stunning array of native blooms, including Karri Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids, and Pterostylis orchids. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the park’s 3 walking trails (Wildflower Wander, Woody Pear and Sheoak) to see white and pink Banjine scattered across the forest floor and if you’re lucky, you will spot the White Spider Orchid lurking in the undergrowth.
The Blackwood River Walk Trail winds its way through the picturesque landscape, providing a serene backdrop for an assortment of wildflowers. As you explore the river’s banks, you’ll encounter a variety of blooms that thrive in this riparian habitat. Look for vibrant Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage, Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids.
Barrabup Pool and Workmans Pool in St John Brook Conservation Park are scenic retreats that showcases the beauty of wildflowers in tranquil settings. Surrounding the pools, you’ll discover an array of blooms that add colour and fragrance to the landscape. Look for delicate Hare Orchids, Pink Petticoats, everlastings, and Pink Bunny Orchids, which thrive in this serene environment. Take a moment to appreciate the harmony between the wildflowers and the pool’s crystal-clear waters, creating a captivating sight for all who visit.
The quaint village of Donnelly River is surrounded by nature’s beauty, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in a stunning display of wildflowers. The jarrah forest provides the perfect habitat for an assortment of floral delights. Keep an eye out for Peas, Bearded Heaths, Banksias, and displays of White Clematis and Native Wisteria. Take a leisurely stroll through the village and surrounding areas to witness the splendour of these wildflower displays.
Lake Jasper is a picturesque destination where nature’s wonders unfold. Amidst the tranquil waters and the surrounding landscape, you’ll discover an array of wildflowers. Look for delicate Lobelias, Scaevolas, Spider Orchids, Helmet Orchids, and Midge Orchids that find their home in the wet forests. The interplay of water, greenery, and colourful blooms creates a captivating sight that showcases the beauty of the region.
Nestled near Barrabup, the Jarrahwood State Forest is a rich habitat for flora and fauna. From late winter to early spring, the forest comes alive with a profusion of colourful blooms. Look for the delicate beauty of Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, Cherry Spiders, Broad-lipped Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Flying Duck Orchids, Hammer Orchids, Pimeleas, and Cutleaf Hibbertia. This enchanting forest is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Northcliffe & Windy Harbour
Northcliffe Forest Park is a nature lover’s paradise, boasting an impressive array of wildflowers. The Forest Park offers visitors a range of walk trails that wind through spectacular tall forest, through open coastal wetland vegetation and along the lush riparian zone of the Gardner River. During spring the trails are bordered by a colourful mass of wildflowers. Autumn & Winter provide wonderful displays of fungi. Take in the fresh scent of the surrounding vegetation as you appreciate the beauty of these wildflowers in their natural habitat.
Shannon National Park is a haven for wildflower enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of species in a pristine setting. From vibrant Cowslips and King-in-his-Carriage Orchids to Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids and Flying Duck Orchids, the park showcases the richness of Western Australia’s flora. The native bushland provides a perfect backdrop for these floral delights, creating a harmonious blend of colours and scents that captivate visitors.
The limestone cliffs at Point D’Entrecasteaux, Windy Harbour provide a perfect habitat for coastal heath wildflowers and orchids. From late winter to early spring look for displays South Coast Spider Orchids, Blue Fairy Orchids, Curled-tongue Shell Orchids, Snail Orchids, Parrot Bush, Bull Banksia, Basket Bush, Cockies tongues, Bearded Heaths, Cut-leaf Hibbertia and Melaleucas. Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Zebra Orchids, Cherry Spiders, Broad-lipped Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Flying Duck & Hammer Orchids, Pimeleas, Cutleaf Hibbertia, Granny’s Bonnets are common in the sheltered dune systems behind Windy Harbour from mid-September to mid-October. Fire-dependant orchids can be found after summer fires.
In late September Mount Chudalup blooms with beautiful displays of Verticordia, Melaleuca and Bearded Heaths. Mossy swards become a carpet of Pink Petticoats, everlastings and after a fire, Pink Bunny Orchids. The edges of the granite are a wonderful place to search for Karri Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids and Pterostylis orchids. Be careful not to trample any plants in this fragile ecosystem.
Pemberton
The old-growth karri forest around Greater Beedelup and Warren National Parks have a magic of it’s own. Delicate Lobelias and Scaevolas line the waterways and the damp forests provide a habitat for colonies of Spider, Helmet and Midge Orchids. Look for Tree Hovea, White Clematis, Karri Flame Pea, Water Bush, Soap Bush, Hibbertia, Tassel Bush.
Another location to find beautiful displays of karri wildflowers in October is the Gloucester National Park. This beautiful national park, located near Pemberton, offers excellent opportunities to witness native wildflowers. Explore the walking trails, such as the famous Gloucester Tree walk or the Karri Views walk, and you may encounter a variety of wildflowers blooming during the spring season. Look out for species like Spider Orchids, Kangaroo Paw, Hovea, and more.
The jarrah forest between Lake Yeagarup and Yeagarup Dunes is worth walking from mid- September through October to see beautiful displays of Bearded Heaths, Cutleaf Hibbertia, Common Brown Pea, Bird Orchids, Snail Orchids, Karri Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage and Flying Duck Orchids. If you have a 4WD the patch of forest between the dunes and the coast is a good spot to look for Zebra Orchids, Blue Sun Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Karri Cowslips, Pink Fairy Orchids, Coral Vine, Parrot Bush, Native Wisteria, Common Brown Pea and Bearded Heaths. In winter through to spring look for Curled-tongue Shell Orchids, Banded Greenhoods and Snail Orchids.
Nestled in Big Brook State Forest, Big Brook Dam is not only a popular recreational spot but also home to an impressive display of wildflowers. Explore the trails that wind around the dam, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant carpet of blooms. Look for Karri Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids, and Pterostylis orchids, which thrive in this pristine environment. The dam’s tranquil waters and the surrounding wildflowers create a serene and picturesque scene for visitors to enjoy.
The Cascades is a serene and captivating location where wildflowers flourish. As you wander along the cascading waters, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of floral beauty. Look out for a variety of wildflowers, including Curled-tongue Shell Orchids, Snail Orchids, Parrot Bush, Bull Banksia, Basket Bush, Cockies tongues, Bearded Heaths, Cut-leaf Hibbertia, and Melaleucas. These exquisite blooms thrive in the unique microclimate created by the cascades, offering a truly enchanting experience for nature enthusiasts.
The Heartbreak Drive Trail offers not only breathtaking views but also a chance to encounter the region’s wildflowers. As you traverse this scenic trail, keep an eye out for delicate blooms such as Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage, Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids. The trail winds through picturesque landscapes around Pemberton.
Goblin Swamp is a wetland area that boasts as an impressive local gem for wildflower-spotting. This unique habitat provides a thriving environment for a variety of species and features a five-kilometre walk trail. Check swampy fringes for Albany Pitcher Plants and in autumn look for Hare Orchids near Goblin Swamp. In spring Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage, Narrow-lipped Hammer and Flying Duck Orchids are common near Goblin Swamp. The diverse floral displays in Goblin Swamp offer a wonderful opportunity to witness the fascinating adaptations and beauty of these wildflowers.
Boat Landing Road & the Donnelly River area showcases a great display of wildflowers. A wide variety of Peas and Bearded Heaths, Banksias, Adenanthos are often on display, along with White Clematis and Native Wisteria.
The Karri Forest Explorer Drive, which winds through the majestic karri forests of the region, offers a breathtaking wildflower experience. As you traverse the drive, you’ll encounter a variety of floral delights. Look for Karri Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids, and Pterostylis orchids, which add their delicate beauty to the towering karri trees. The drive provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendour of the karri forest and witness the wonders of its wildflowers.
Walpole
Walpole-Nornalup National Park is a treasure trove of wildflowers, offering a diverse range of species against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. The park’s rich ecosystem supports an array of floral displays throughout the year. In spring, you can expect to find vibrant displays of wildflowers such as Hare Orchids, Cowslips, King-in-his-Carriage, Narrow-lipped Hammer Orchids, and Flying Duck Orchids.
Fernhook Falls is not only a picturesque but also a haven for wildflowers. Among the mossy swards and lush greenery, you’ll discover an enchanting display of Pink Petticoats, everlastings, and Pink Bunny Orchids. The granite edges surrounding the falls offer a unique opportunity to spot Karri Spider Orchids, Donkey Orchids, Leek Orchids, and Pterostylis orchids. Take care while exploring this fragile ecosystem to preserve the beauty of these delicate flowers.
Circular Pool is renowned for its serene beauty, and the wildflowers surrounding this natural oasis only enhance its allure. As you meander along the banks of the pool, you’ll encounter an assortment of floral treasures. Delicate Lobelias and Scaevolas line the waterways, while Spider, Helmet, and Midge Orchids find shelter in the wet forests. Keep an eye out for Tree Hovea, White Clematis, Karri Flame Pea, Water Bush, Soap Bush, and Hibbertia, which add splashes of colour and fragrance to this tranquil setting.
The Valley of the Giants is not only famous for its towering tingle trees but also for the stunning wildflowers that bloom beneath their majestic canopies. This ancient forest provides a habitat for an array of delicate and unique floral species. Among the undergrowth, you can find an assortment of wildflowers, including Curled-tongue Shell Orchids, Snail Orchids, Parrot Bush, Bull Banksia, Basket Bush, Cockies tongues, Bearded Heaths, Cut-leaf Hibbertia, and Melaleucas. The interplay of sunlight filtering through the treetops and the vibrant displays of wildflowers creates a magical and awe-inspiring experience.
Broke Inlet is an enchanting coastal area with an abundance of wildflowers. The inlet’s shoreline provide the perfect habitat for an array of blooms. Look for coastal heath wildflowers such as South Coast Spider Orchids, Blue Fairy Orchids, Curled-tongue Shell Orchids, Snail Orchids, Parrot Bush, Bull Banksia, and Basket Bush. The coastal setting adds an extra layer of beauty to the wildflower displays, creating a truly mesmerizing sight.
Walk trials around the whole region offer an abundance of colourful wildflower. From Mount Lindesay trail, Giant Tingle Tree to Coalmine Beach Walk Trail, and Hilltop to Nornalup Inlet, to Swarbrick Art Loop, Walpole inlet trails, Mount Frankland and much more, Walpole comes alive during wildflower season.