Rockhampton Regional Council's popular Native Plant Program returns this week, giving residents the opportunity to help bring nature into their own backyards - for free.
More than 4,000 plants are expected to be collected by residents over the three-day program, with a selection of hardy, locally suited native species available from today through to Thursday.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said Council was proud to deliver the much-loved program once again.
"This a great program that Council is proud to invest in for another year," Mayor Williams said.
"It helps deliver a sustainable future for our region and encourages residents to not only get familiar with native species but get their hands dirty and make their own garden more sustainable."
The native plants on offer this year include Fan Flower, Scaly Ebony, Holly Hedge and Leichardt Tree.
Environmental Sustainability Councillor Elliot Hilse said the selected species thrive in our climate and support local biodiversity.
"By planting native species, residents are helping to create habitat in their very own backyards," Cr Hilse said.
"Each of these plants will grow to provide essential food and shelter for local birds, bees and pollinators.
"Native species are also great as they generally require less water and maintenance, making them a practical and sustainable addition to any garden.
"The range on offer includes shrubs, groundcovers and a tree option should you have the room and the right spot - so there's something to suit every yard."
Native plants are available July 21, 22 and 23 from the following locations:
- Rockhampton Southside Library - open 9am - 5.30pm daily
- Gracemere Customer Service Centre - open 9am - 4.30pm daily
- Mount Morgan Customer Service Centre - open 9am - 4.30pm daily
More on this year's species:
- Fan Flower (Groundcover)
This hardy, evergreen groundcover has blue/mauve flowers and attracts beneficial pollinators to your garden.
- Holly Hedge (Shrub)
This evergreen, compact shrub has bright scarlet-red tubular flowers and is suitable for hedging in your garden.
- Scaly Ebony (Small tree)
This evergreen small tree with small fragrant flowers that attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.
- Leichardt Tree (Large tree)
This species is for residents with room for a large tree, it is a lovely shade tree with yellow-white flowers in summer.
The Native Plant Program is a key initiative under Council's sustainability strategy.
