For those who want more native plants in their gardens but don't know where to start - there is a solution!
With the aid of the Warrnambool and District branch of the Australian Plants Society, Warrnambool City Council has developed an online plant selector tool.
Gardeners can select plants based on a range of factors including type, size and water requirements.
People can also choose between Australian plants and plants endemic to the Warrnambool region.
Each plant is accompanied by a stunning photograph, expertly taken by Australian Plants Society member, author and photographer, Kevin Sparrow.
"This is a really handy tool for gardeners and for those who perhaps enjoy a garden but who haven't got a green thumb," Warrnambool Mayor Cr Tony Herbert said.
"The benefits of planting Australian plants and in particular those which occur naturally in our region are many.
"For starters you will have a lovely, appealing garden that would require less water than a more traditional cottage garden with lots of northern hemisphere plants.
"And your native garden will also provide habitat for wildlife.
"Native plants often grow quickly and it is amazing to see how quickly native animals can find the plants they need to feed from and shelter in."
