Flowers: these familiar friends come from very far away!

Care & Oceania

When you think of Australia, you might not immediately think of flowers. You’re more likely to think of the Sydney Opera House, kangaroos, vast plains, prawns on the barbecue and Steve Irwin. But did you realise that it’s quite likely you have a piece of Australia in your living room? These flowers have covered a lot of miles to get to Britain.

Cymbidium

The cymbidium originates from the tropical regions of Nepal, Vietnam, Taiwan, Australia and the Himalayas, where it lives amidst rocks, leaves and tree trunks. Definitely a survivor!

Leucospermum

This remarkable pincushion was not native to Australia, but is widely produced there nowadays. it’s quite likely you’ve placed a Leucospermum with a visa in your vase!

Kangaroo paw

Australia’s national flower, the kangaroo paw or Anigozanthos, is mainly used here is a cut flower in bouquets and not as a plant. The kangaroo paw grows on the most varied soil types in Australia. That explained the name: Anigozanthos is derived from the Greek words anises = uneven and anthos = flower.