Less than 4% of Knox is covered by native vegetation or areas with indigenous tree cover. These significant sites are scattered throughout the municipality in bushland reserves, road reserves, and on private property. They are important refuge and habitat corridors for our native animals including birds, echidnas and frogs.
They are also filled with a variety of seasonal wildflowers which are important for our local beneficial insects. Knox's wildflowers come in all shapes, colours and sizes - and each one has carefully evolved to support a different type of pollinator.
Spring is the best time of year to admire the variety of species we have. You can spot the bright yellow flowers of a Bulbine Lily (Bulbine bulbosa) and fiery red flowers of a Running Postman (Kennedia prostrata).
Can you catch the sudden flowering stem of a local Trigger plant (Stylidium graminifolium)? Or maybe, you are lucky enough to smell chocolate near a field of purple Chocolate Lillies (Arthropodium strictum).
One of the most threatening processes for our local bushlands and wildflowers is the introduction of weedy plant species - many of which are private garden escapees. They have a range of adaptations which make them effective at growing and spreading seed. As a result, then can often outcompete, exclude or smother our local indigenous plants.
Some of the worst culprits include Sweet Pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum), Blackberry (Rubus fruiticosus) and Ivy (Hedera) varieties. The good news is, we can all play a part in reducing the impact of weeds and helping our indigenous species thrive!
Want to learn more? Join our upcoming wildflower and weed ID walk
When: Friday 12 September, 10am - 11.30am
Where: William Morris Reserve, Wantirna
