Sydney does not have the dramatic changes of season that can be experienced in some other parts of Australia or other countries. This is easy to understand when we consider that the midday temperature in Sydney on the winter solstice is often comparable to the midday temperature on the same June day in parts of England.
It should be noted, in passing, that the vast majority of Australian natives are evergreen. The Australian ‘bush’ remains green all year, while the imported species turn various shades of yellow to red and shed their leaves.
A Nyssa Sylvatica colours up against a backdrop of a Sydney Red Gum (Angophora species)
In the past week, we have had a succession of typical autumn days – maximum temperature in the mid twenties Celsius, with overnight minimum around 10 Celsius. The clear blue skies add to the enjoyment of this season, even if the the bowls don’t always go where they should.
While enjoying such gorgeous weather, as well as watching some trees change colour, we celebrate the colours of Sydney autumn with many flowers as well. There is an abundance of blooms on our Sasanqua Camellias, which began flowering in early March, and are still going strong.
The Gordonias (sometimes knows as Fried Egg Plants) are also covered with flowers and surrounding themselves with a carpet of spent blooms. On past experience, this will continue for the next month or so.
Some roses are in their third or fourth flush for the season. This one is called Seduction.
On a recent garden visit, we saw some delightful, and different, Salvias.
The air is heavy with the ‘vanilla custard’ fragrance of this Heliotrope, called “Cherry Pie”.
Not to be outdone, a Banksia stands to attention, representing Australian natives.
