Grey Garden

Grey Garden

The Fern Gully demonstrates a range of fern species typical of cool forests of Australasia that will grow well in Melbourne's climate. 

Grey plants from around the world show variation in color and texture. The silver or grey coloring is due to leaf hairs, scales or waxy coating. These leaf protections allow survival in tough conditions found in adverse growing environments.

RBG staff visit gardens and nurseries to observe plant combinations. We also trial various species for low maintenance requirements, use on steep slopes and plants that will aid weed suppression. New plantings are massed in large areas for a striking display.

 

Key Plants
Curator Notes
History  


Key Plants

Chrysocephalum apiculatum

Ground cover perennial, yellow flowers all year

Euphorbia rigida  

Low succulent shrub, lime flowers spring  

Salvia discolor  

Low shrub,black flowers all year, sticky stems  

Acacia argyrophylla

Large shrub, silver leaves, yellow flowers spring

Puya alpestris  

Large prickly clump forming succulent, large pink flower spikes spring  

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Curator Notes

  1. Cut plants back after flowering
  2. Plant new plants in autumn to establish well before the following summer  
  3. Many grey plants grow quickly but are short lived, replanting may be required .

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History 

  • Established 1980's Extended over escarpment 1990's, extended to both sides of path 2002. gradual increase in Australian plant content .

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Image


Best Viewed


Late Spring and on hot days in Summer!

Location


Grey Garden, best viewed from Temple of the Winds

Alexandra Avenue near H gate
Visitor Map
 

Grow

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Plant Census


Find out what plants grow at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

 


> RBG Melbourne > Garden Features

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne - Grey Garden
http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/./Grey_Garden ( accessed Tuesday, 24th November 2009 )