Remember the traditional English gardens many of us grew up with? While those European plants went dormant during winter, our magnificent Australian natives have a different story to tell. At Kuranga Native Nursery, we’ve spent over 50 years helping gardeners like you create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens that shine all year round.
1. Correa reflexa (Native Fuchsia) – The Classic Winter Beauty
Many of you will remember this cherished native from your parents’ gardens. The Native Fuchsia has stood the test of time, proving itself as one of our most reliable winter performers. From May through winter, these hardy plants reward you with delightful bell-shaped flowers in rich reds, gentle pinks, and creamy whites. Plus, they attract those beloved honeyeaters we all enjoy watching from our kitchen windows.
Expert Growing Tips:
- Thrives in morning sun or filtered shade – perfect for those tricky spots
- Excellent in pots on your patio or as a low hedge
- Remarkably resilient through frost and drought
- Minimal maintenance required – ideal for those who enjoy travelling
Ready to Add Winter Colour to Your Garden?
Visit our nursery to explore our extensive collection of Native Fuchsias in bloom. Our qualified horticulturalists are available every Tuesday and Wednesday for personal plant consultations to help you select the perfect varieties for your garden.
2. Banksia spinulosa (Hairpin Banksia)
This true-blue Aussie beauty brings back memories of bushwalks and family picnics. The Hairpin Banksia’s magnificent golden-yellow candles create a warm winter welcome in your garden. It’s a wonderful way to attract native birds, perfect for those peaceful morning moments with your coffee.
3. Acacia cognata (River Wattle)
Looking for something different from the spring wattles we all know? This elegant native creates a stunning natural screen with its weeping branches – perfect for creating privacy without losing that connection to nature. The lime-green foliage provides year-round structure and pairs beautifully with other winter bloomers.
4. Epacris impressa (Common Heath)
As Victoria’s floral emblem, this charming plant holds a special place in our gardens. Its dainty flowers in pink, red, or white brighten those shady corners during winter, reminiscent of the native bushland we’ve always loved.
5. Grevillea ‘Winter Delight’
Perfect for modern, smaller gardens, this compact Grevillea proves that downsizing doesn’t mean compromising on garden beauty. It flowers abundantly through winter, bringing in the birds and adding life to your outdoor space.
Caring for Your Winter Warriors
- After decades of experience, we’ve learned these simple care tips:
- Plant in well-draining soil – most natives dislike wet feet
- Use native plant food sparingly – they prefer a gentle approach
- Add mulch to keep roots cosy and reduce watering
- Give a light trim after flowering, just like maintaining a neat hedge
Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips
Unsure about your garden’s specific needs? Our personal garden plant consultations have helped countless gardeners create their dream native gardens. Book a consultation with our experienced horticulturalists:
- Available every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:00 AM or 10:30 AM
- $500 consultation fee fully redeemable on same-day plant purchases
Visit Australia’s Largest Native Plant Nursery
Make a Day of It at Kuranga
Location: 118 York Road, Mount Evelyn
- Browse Victoria’s largest collection of native plants (3,500+ exclusive varieties)
- Enjoy a relaxing break at Paperbark Café (open 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM)
- Explore our Australian-made gifts and homewares
- Get expert advice from our long-serving horticulturalists
Opening Hours & Access
- Open daily: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Public transport: Take the Lilydale/Belgrave line to Heathmont, then bus 679 to Inverness Road/York Road
Ready to Start Your Winter Garden Journey?
- Book a Garden Consultation
- Browse our Plant Finder
- Visit our nursery to explore our exclusive range
Bringing Australian native beauty to your garden since 1969
- Further reading:
To learn more about which plants support birdlife in your garden, visit BirdLife Australia’s native gardening tips.
Want to attract more native pollinators? Check out Aussie Bee’s guide to native bee plants. - For design inspiration using our winter warriors and other natives, the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is a must-visit.
