Livable Garden Centre | Livable Basics

Acid/Acidic

Soil with a pH below 7 is considered acidic. Some plants grow best in acidic soil, while others prefer neutral or alkaline conditions. Testing your soil can help you choose plants that are better suited to your garden.

Adaptable

A plant that grows successfully across a wide range of conditions, such as different soil types, light levels or climates. Adaptable plants are often easier to establish in home gardens.

Aerial Roots

Roots that grow above the soil rather than below it. They help some plants climb, absorb moisture from the air or provide additional support.

Air-purifying plant

A term commonly used to describe indoor plants that have been studied for their ability to remove certain airborne compounds under controlled conditions. Most people choose these plants for their appearance and the enjoyment they bring to indoor spaces.

Alkaline

Soil with a pH above 7 is considered alkaline. Soil pH affects how easily plants can access nutrients, so knowing whether your soil is alkaline can help you choose suitable plants and soil treatments.

Annuals

Annuals complete their entire life cycle within one growing season, from germination through to flowering, seed production and death. They provide plenty of seasonal colour but generally need replanting each year.

Arid

A climate with very low rainfall and dry conditions throughout most of the year. Plants suited to arid areas are typically highly drought tolerant and adapted to conserving water.

Aromatic

Plants with fragrant leaves, flowers or stems that release a noticeable scent when touched, crushed or growing naturally. Many aromatic plants are popular in herb gardens and sensory gardens.

Attractive foliage

Plants grown primarily for the colour, texture or shape of their leaves rather than their flowers. Foliage plants can provide interest throughout much of the year.

Australian Cultivar

A selected variety of a plant that has been developed or bred in Australia for particular characteristics such as improved flowering, compact growth, disease resistance or suitability to Australian growing conditions.

Bare Root

Bare root plants are sold without soil around their roots while they are dormant. They are typically available during the cooler months and should be planted soon after purchase.

Beneficial Insects

Insects that provide natural benefits in the garden by pollinating flowers, breaking down organic matter or feeding on garden pests. Encouraging beneficial insects can help create a healthier and more balanced garden ecosystem.

Beneficial Wildlife

Animals such as birds, frogs, lizards, insects and other creatures that contribute positively to a healthy garden. Beneficial wildlife can assist with pollination, natural pest control and maintaining biodiversity.

Biennials

Biennial plants complete their life cycle over two growing seasons. They usually produce leaves in their first year, then flower, set seed and die during their second year.

Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the variety of plants, animals, fungi and other living organisms that share an environment. A biodiverse garden helps create healthier ecosystems by supporting pollinators, beneficial insects, birds and other wildlife.

Biosecurity

Biosecurity refers to practices that help prevent the spread of pests, diseases and invasive weeds. Good biosecurity protects home gardens, farms and Australia's natural environments.

Border Planting

Plants used to define the edges of garden beds, paths or lawns. Border planting can add structure, guide movement through the garden and create a finished appearance.

Bracts

Bracts are modified leaves that surround or sit beneath flowers. In some plants, such as bougainvillea and poinsettia, the colourful bracts are often more noticeable than the flowers themselves.

Bush Tucker

Bush tucker refers to native Australian plants traditionally used as food by First Nations peoples for thousands of years. Many bush tucker plants are also well suited to Australian gardens and support local biodiversity.

Calcium (Ca)

Calcium is an essential plant nutrient that helps support strong cell walls, healthy
new growth and root development. A lack of available calcium can affect developing leaves, fruit and growing tips.

Canopy

The canopy is the upper layer of leaves and branches formed by trees or larger
shrubs. It can provide shade, shelter and habitat while influencing the light, temperature and moisture available to plants growing underneath.

Clay Soil

Clay soil contains very fine soil particles and can hold water and nutrients well.
It can also become dense or poor draining, so improving soil structure and
choosing plants suited to the conditions should be considered.

Climbers / Climbing Plants

Climbing plants grow upwards by using structures such as tendrils, twining stems or aerial roots for support. They are useful for covering fences, walls and
trellises or adding height without taking up much ground space.

Coastal

Coastal plants are suited to conditions commonly found near the coast, such as salt spray, sandy soils and strong winds. Their level of tolerance can vary, so
individual growing requirements should still be considered.

Colourful

Colourful plants add visual interest through flowers, foliage, stems, fruit or new growth. Colour can be used to create contrast, repetition or seasonal interest
within a garden.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together because their characteristics may complement each other or contribute to the wider garden system. This can include attracting beneficial insects, providing shade or groundcover, accessing nutrients from different soil depths, adding organic matter as plants die back, or helping nutrients move through the soil as plant material decomposes.

Compost

Compost is decomposed organic material that can be added to soil to improve its
structure, moisture retention and nutrient content. It also supports many of the organisms that contribute to healthy soil.

Container Growing

Container growing is the practice of growing plants in pots, planters or other containers rather than directly in the ground. It can be useful in small spaces and allows greater control over soil, position and drainage.

Cottage Garden

A cottage garden is an informal planting style that often combines flowering
plants, herbs, shrubs and other plants in closely planted layers. The overall
effect is generally relaxed and less structured than formal garden styles.

Courtyard Growing

Courtyard growing refers to selecting and growing plants in smaller or enclosed outdoor spaces. Plant choice often depends on available light, airflow, space and the heat reflected from surrounding walls or paving.

Creeper / Creeping Habit

A creeper is a plant that grows along or close to the ground, often spreading
outwards as it develops. Creepers can be useful for covering bare soil, softening edges and filling spaces between larger plants.

Crown

The crown is the area where a plant's stems or growing points meet its roots,
usually around soil level. Planting or mulching too deeply around the crown can cause problems for some plants, so its position is useful to recognise.

Cultivar

A cultivar is a plant that has been deliberately selected and propagated by
people to maintain particular characteristics, such as flower colour, size, form or growth habit. Some cultivars are also created by crossing different
plants to combine desirable traits from each parent.

Cut Flowers

Cut flowers are flowers or flowering stems grown or selected for use in
arrangements and vases. Some varieties are particularly valued for their stem
length, flower form or how long they last after cutting.

Deciduous

Deciduous plants lose some or all of their leaves during part of the year, often in
response to cooler temperatures, dry conditions or seasonal changes. New growth usually returns when conditions become favourable again.

Decorative Fruit

Decorative fruit is grown mainly for its appearance rather than for eating. It can add colour and seasonal interest to a garden and may also provide food for birds and other wildlife.

Dieback

Dieback is when shoots, branches or other parts of a plant begin to die back towards healthier growth. It can be caused by stress, disease, root problems, damage or unsuitable growing conditions, but it can also occur naturally as parts of a plant age or reach the end of their life cycle. Plants do not grow indefinitely, and shorter-lived plants will generally complete their life cycle sooner than longer-lived shrubs and trees.

Dormancy

Dormancy is a period when a plant slows or temporarily stops active growth, often in response to seasonal conditions such as cold, heat or lack of water. The plant
remains alive and resumes growth when conditions become suitable again.

Drainage

Drainage describes how easily excess water moves through soil or away from a growing area. Good drainage helps prevent roots from remaining waterlogged, although the amount of drainage a plant needs varies between species.

Drought Tolerant

Drought-tolerant plants can cope with extended periods of low rainfall once established. Most still need regular watering while establishing and may require extra water during prolonged dry or very hot conditions.

Dry Sclerophyll Woodland

Dry sclerophyll woodland is an Australian vegetation type found in relatively dry
areas, usually with an open canopy of trees and an understorey adapted to lower rainfall. Eucalypts are commonly a dominant feature of these environments.

Ecosystem

An ecosystem is a community of living things, such as plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms, interacting with each other and with their surrounding environment. Gardens can form small ecosystems where soil, water, plants and wildlife all influence one another.

Edible

Edible plants have one or more parts that can be safely eaten, such as leaves, fruit,
flowers, seeds or roots. Edible does not necessarily mean palatable, as some edible plants or plant parts may have strong, bitter or otherwise unpleasant flavours. As with other foods, some people may also experience allergies or sensitivities, so unfamiliar plants should be handled and tried with care. Always confirm which parts are edible and how they should be prepared before eating, particularly with unfamiliar or native plants.

Endemic

An endemic plant naturally occurs only within a particular geographic area and nowhere else in the wild. A plant can be native to Australia without being endemic to a specific region.

Epiphyte

An epiphyte is a plant that grows on another plant for support without taking nutrients directly from it. Many epiphytes collect moisture and nutrients from rain, air and organic matter around them.

Erosion

Erosion is the movement or loss of soil caused by water, wind or other disturbance. Bare or exposed soil is generally more vulnerable to erosion than soil protected by plants, mulch or other groundcover.

Erosion Control

Erosion control involves reducing the movement or loss of soil. Plant roots, groundcovers, mulch and other measures can help protect the soil surface and reduce soil movement caused by water, wind or other disturbance.

Establishment / Establishing

Establishment is the period after planting when a plant is developing new roots and adjusting to its new growing conditions. During this time, plants often need more regular watering and care than they will once established.

Eucalypt Forest

A eucalypt forest is an Australian vegetation community where eucalypts form a major part of the tree canopy. These forests can vary greatly depending on rainfall, soil, climate and location, and may include species of Eucalyptus, Corymbia and Angophora.

Evaporation

Evaporation is the process of liquid water changing into water vapour and moving into the air. In gardens, heat, wind and exposed soil can increase evaporation, while mulch and plant cover can help reduce moisture loss.

Evergreen

Evergreen plants retain living foliage throughout the year rather than losing all their leaves in one seasonal period. They still regularly shed and replace individual leaves as part of normal growth.

Exotic

An exotic plant is a species growing outside the area where it occurs naturally, usually because it has been introduced by people. In Australia, this generally refers to plants that are not native to the country, although not all exotic plants are invasive.

Feature Plant

A feature plant is chosen to stand out within a garden and draw attention to a particular area. It may be selected for its size, shape, foliage, flowers or other distinctive characteristics.

Fertilisers

Fertilisers provide plants with additional nutrients to support growth, flowering and overall health. They are available in different forms, including liquid, granular, fast-release and slow-release products. Fertilisers can help supply some nutrients, but they do not always provide everything a plant needs, as nutrient availability also depends on factors such as soil condition, organic matter, moisture and soil biology.

Firewise Garden

A firewise garden is designed to help reduce bushfire risk around a home or property. Plant choice is only one part of this and should be considered alongside plant placement, maintenance, moisture levels, available fuel and surrounding materials.

Flowering Period

The flowering period is the time of year when a plant usually produces flowers. Timing and length can vary depending on climate, weather, plant health and growing conditions.

Foliage

Foliage refers to the leaves of a plant. It can contribute colour, texture, shape and seasonal interest to a garden, even when the plant is not flowering.

Forest

A forest is an area where trees form a major part of the vegetation. Forests vary widely in structure, moisture, light and plant diversity depending on climate, soil and location.

Fragrant

Fragrant plants produce noticeable scents from their flowers, leaves, stems or other parts. The strength and type of fragrance can vary between plants and may also change with weather, time of day or season.

Full Sun

Full sun generally refers to a position that receives around six or more hours of direct sunlight each day. The intensity of that sunlight can vary, particularly between morning and afternoon and across different seasons.

Grasslands

Grasslands are natural habitats where grasses and other low-growing plants are the main vegetation, with few or no trees. They can occur in both dry and wet environments and support a wide range of plant and animal life.

Green Manure

Green manure refers to plants grown specifically to improve the soil. They are usually cut down, left to break down on the surface or incorporated into the soil, where they can add organic matter and return nutrients as they decompose.

Groundcover

Groundcovers are low-growing plants that spread across the soil surface. They can help protect bare soil, reduce erosion, suppress weeds and create a living layer beneath taller plants.

Growing Habit

Growing habit describes the natural shape and form of a plant as it develops. Common habits include upright, spreading, clumping, trailing, creeping and weeping.

Habitat

A habitat is the natural environment where a plant or animal lives. It includes the conditions and resources it relies on, such as soil, water, light, shelter and surrounding plant life.

Heath / Heathland

Heathland is a natural habitat dominated by low-growing shrubs and other hardy plants, often in nutrient-poor, acidic or well-drained soils. These environments can support a diverse range of specialised plants and wildlife.

Hedge / Hedging Plant

A hedging plant is grown as part of a row or boundary to create screening, structure, shelter or separation between areas. Suitable plants usually respond well to regular pruning and can form dense growth over time.

Height

Height describes how tall a plant is expected to grow from its base to its highest point. On our website, height ranges are an estimate of how a plant is likely to grow in a typical suburban garden. Plants growing in their natural habitat may reach very different sizes depending on climate, soil, water, competition and other environmental conditions.

Herbaceous

Herbaceous plants have soft, non-woody stems. Some die back during part of the year and regrow when conditions improve, while others may remain actively growing for longer periods in mild climates.

Examples can include Sweet Alyssum, which can decline during prolonged heat and humidity, and Australian Daisy (Brachyscome multifida), a soft-stemmed perennial that can be trimmed after flowering.

Humus

Humus is the dark, stable organic material that remains in soil after plant and animal matter has broken down. It helps improve soil structure, moisture retention and nutrient availability.

Hybrid

A hybrid is a plant produced by crossing two genetically different parent plants,
either naturally or through deliberate breeding. This allows characteristics from both parents to appear in the resulting plant.

A hybrid describes how the plant originated, while a cultivar describes a plant that people have selected and continued to propagate to maintain particular characteristics. A hybrid can also become a cultivar if desirable traits are selected and maintained through cultivation.

Invasive Plant

An invasive plant is a species that spreads beyond where it is planted and can cause harm to natural environments, agriculture or other plants. This is separate from the term weed, which can simply describe a plant growing where it is not wanted. Some invasive plants are formally declared or regulated as weeds at a local, state or national level, which can place restrictions on their sale, movement or control.

Kid & pet-friendly

Generally considered non-toxic and safe around children and pets.

Littoral Forest

Coastal forest habitat containing plants adapted to salt spray, wind, and sandy soils.

Loam/Loamy Soil

Balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay that drains well while retaining moisture and nutrients. Suitable for a wide range of plants.

Low maintenance garden

Plants that require minimal upkeep once established.

Macro Nutrients

Essential elements required in large quantities for plant growth - nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

Magnesium (Mg)

Essential nutrient that plays a key role in photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Mallee Area

Natural habitat with low-growing, multi-stemmed trees, typically found in arid or semi-arid regions.

Media/Medium

The material plants are grown in - may include soil, compost, peat moss, perlite, or other components that support plant roots.

Mediterranean Climate

Climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, typically found in coastal areas.

Micro Nutrients

Essential elements that plants need in small amounts - iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), boron (B), and chlorine (Cl).

Mountain Slopes

Sloping sides of hills or mountains that may have unique microclimates and varied soil types.

Mulch

Layer of organic material applied to soil surface to retain moisture, reduce weeds, regulate temperature, and add nutrients as it breaks down.

Mycorrhizae

Beneficial fungi that form partnerships with plant roots, improving water and nutrient absorption.

Native-friendly companion

Non-native plants that grow well alongside native species without being invasive.

Neutral

Soil or substance with a pH level of 7 - balanced between acidic and alkaline.

Nitrogen (N)

Essential nutrient for plant growth, particularly important for leaf and stem development and chlorophyll production.

Nitrogen fixing

Plants that convert nitrogen from the air into a form other plants can use, improving soil fertility.

Obovate (Leaf Shape)

Leaf shape that's broader at the top and narrows towards the base - like an upside-down egg.

Open forest

Natural habitat with scattered trees and an open canopy, allowing moderate sunlight to reach the ground.

Organic Matter

Decomposed plant and animal material in soil that improves structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.

Perennials

Plants that live for more than two years, typically growing and flowering over multiple seasons without replanting.

pH (Potential of Hydrogen)

Measure of acidity or alkalinity in soil on a scale from 0 to 14. Affects nutrient availability and plant growth.

Phosphorus (P)

Essential nutrient for energy transfer, root development, and flowering. Particularly important for early plant growth and seed formation.

Photosynthesis

Process where plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into energy, producing oxygen.

Playground planting

Tough, low-risk plants suitable for areas where children play.

Pollinator-friendly

Attracts birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.

Poolside planting

Plants that tolerate chlorine splash and intense sunlight around swimming pools.

Potassium (K)

Essential nutrient that supports root growth, strengthens plant cells, improves drought and disease resistance, and aids fruit development.

Rainforest

Natural habitat with dense vegetation and high canopy cover, featuring high humidity, abundant rainfall, and diverse plant and animal life.

Rainforest Margin

Transitional area between rainforests and other habitats like open forests or grasslands.

Rhizome

Underground stem that grows horizontally, producing roots and shoots along its length to help plants spread and store nutrients.

Riparian Zones

Areas where land meets waterways. Act as natural buffers, preventing erosion and supporting diverse plant and animal life.

Robust/Hardy

Tough plants that handle varying conditions with minimal care.

Rocky Gullies

Narrow valleys with rocky surfaces that may have unique microclimates and support plants adapted to rocky, well-drained environments.

Rocky or dry gardens (xeriscape)

Plants that tolerate poor, sandy, or shallow soil and infrequent watering. Suitable for low-maintenance or sloped areas.

Sclerophyll

Plants with thick, leathery leaves adapted to conserve water, commonly found in dry or nutrient-poor soils.

Scrubland

Natural habitat dominated by low-growing vegetation, including dense shrubs and small trees.

Seasonal colour

Plants that provide bright or changing colours during particular times of year.

Semi-arid

Climate with limited but regular rainfall - drier than temperate areas but more moisture than arid zones.

Shade-giving

Plants that grow large enough to create natural shade in your garden.

Shrublands

Natural habitats where shrubs are the main vegetation type, varying in density and found in different climates.

Slow-growing

Plants that grow less than 30cm per year, making them easier to manage for
long-term garden structure.

Soil Biome

Complex ecosystem of organisms including bacteria, fungi, and insects that contribute to soil health and fertility.

Soil improver

Plants that help condition and enrich soil through organic matter or beneficial root systems.

Specimen Plant

Plant selected for unique characteristics or striking features, often used as a focal point in landscaping.

Spread

Horizontal growth of a plant - the overall width it may reach under optimal conditions.

Subalpine

Natural habitats at higher elevations with cooler temperatures, shorter growing seasons, and plants adapted to harsh conditions.

Subtropical

Climate zone between tropical and temperate regions with warm to hot temperatures, high humidity, and seasonal variations.

Subtropical Coastal Rainforests

Rainforest habitats in coastal subtropical climates featuring evergreen trees, dense undergrowth, and high plant diversity.

Suitable for colder climates

Plants that tolerate light frost and cold snaps down to around -2°C to -4°C, as occasionally experienced in SEQ hinterland areas.

Suitable indoors

Plants that can be grown indoors with filtered light and good airflow.

Sulfur (S)

Essential nutrient involved in protein formation, enzyme activation, and overall plant development.

Swampy Coastal Heath

Natural habitat in low-lying coastal areas with poor drainage, supporting plants adapted to wet conditions.

Temperate Climate

Climate with moderate temperatures and distinct seasons, featuring relatively even distribution of rainfall throughout the year.

Tendrils

Thin, specialised structures that climbing plants use to attach to supports.

Textural interest

Plants that add visual depth through interesting leaf textures, structures, or variations.

Trace Elements

Essential minerals required in small quantities for plant health - same as micronutrients.

Trailing plant

Plants with spreading or hanging growth habits, suitable for baskets, walls, or groundcover.

Tropical Climate

Warm, humid climate with high annual rainfall that supports dense vegetation and diverse ecosystems.

Tropical garden

Plants that create a lush, leafy, layered appearance giving tropical aesthetics even without true tropical conditions.

Twining Stems

Stems that coil around supports to help climbing plants grow upward.

Understory planting

Plants that grow well in dappled light beneath taller trees or shrubs.

Vertical Gardening

Growing plants on upright surfaces like walls, trellises, or hanging structures to maximise space.

Wallum

Coastal sandy soil ecosystem found in eastern Australia, featuring shrubs, heath plants, and wetland species adapted to nutrient-poor, acidic soils.

Waterwise Gardening

Gardening techniques that minimise water use through drought-tolerant plants, mulching, and efficient irrigation.

Wet Sclerophyll Forest

Natural habitat with tall trees and moisture-loving understory plants, found in high-rainfall areas.

Wind protection

Plants that form barriers to shield gardens or buildings from wind.

Winter interest

Plants that provide visual appeal during winter months through flowers, berries, or attractive foliage.

Woodland

Natural habitat with spaced trees allowing sunlight to reach the ground, supporting diverse grasses, shrubs, and trees.

Wow! Factor

Plants that stand out with bold colour, form, or overall visual impact.

Xerophyte

Plants specifically adapted to dry conditions, often featuring water-storing structures or deep root systems.

Xeriscape

Landscaping approach designed to reduce water usage through drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation.

Yield

Amount of produce or growth a plant generates within a given period, often used to measure crop productivity.