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.

Green Mulch

Green mulch is living or freshly cut plant material used to cover and protect the soil surface. It can help reduce moisture loss and soil exposure, while also returning organic matter and nutrients to the soil as the material breaks down.

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.

Growing Medium

A growing medium is the material a plant grows in and its roots develop through.
It may include soil, composted bark, coir, sand, perlite or other materials combined to provide the right balance of moisture, drainage, air and support for the plant.

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

Kid & pet-friendly plants are generally considered non-toxic when used as intended around children and household pets. Individual sensitivities can still occur, and plant parts should not be eaten unless they are known to be edible.

Keystone Species

A keystone species is a plant or animal that plays a particularly important role in its ecosystem. Some, such as certain eucalypts, provide food, shelter or habitat for many other species. Removing a keystone species can cause major changes throughout the wider ecosystem.

Layered Planting

Layered planting uses plants of different heights, forms and growth habits together to create several levels within a garden. This can help make better use of space, provide habitat and create a more diverse planting structure.

Life Cycle

A plant’s life cycle describes the stages it moves through from germination or new growth, through maturity and reproduction, to eventual decline and death. Different plants complete this cycle over very different timeframes, from a single season to many decades.

Littoral Forest

Littoral forest is a coastal forest or rainforest community found close to the sea. Plants in these environments are adapted to conditions such as salt spray, strong winds, sandy soils and elemental exposure.

Loam / Loamy Soil

Loamy soil contains a balanced mix of sand, silt and clay. This balance can provide good drainage while still holding moisture and nutrients, although the exact characteristics will vary depending on the proportions present.

Low Maintenance Garden

A low maintenance garden is designed to reduce the amount of ongoing care needed once established. This usually involves choosing plants suited to the site, allowing enough space for mature growth and reducing the need for frequent watering, pruning or replacement.

Low maintenance does not mean maintenance-free. Plants may still need occasional care to remain healthy, and with less maintenance they may not always grow, flower or present at their best. The term refers mainly to the level of input needed to maintain the life and general health of the plants, rather than guaranteeing a particular appearance.

Macronutrients

Macronutrients are nutrients that plants need in relatively large amounts for healthy growth. These include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and sulphur (S), although not every plant needs them in the same proportions.

Magnesium (Mg)

Magnesium is an essential plant nutrient and an important part of chlorophyll, which plants use during photosynthesis. It also supports several other processes involved in plant growth and nutrient use.

Mallee

Mallee is an Australian vegetation type made up mainly of low-growing, multi-stemmed eucalypts. It is commonly found in dry and semi-arid areas.

Mature Size

Mature size describes the approximate height and spread a plant may reach once established. On our website, these figures are intended as a guide for typical
suburban garden conditions, and plants may grow differently in their natural environment or under different growing conditions.

Mediterranean Climate

A Mediterranean climate generally has hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Plants suited to these conditions often cope well with seasonal dryness but may not tolerate prolonged humidity or waterlogged soil.

Microclimate

A microclimate is a small area where conditions differ from the surrounding
environment. Shade, walls, paving, wind, moisture and nearby plants can all create warmer, cooler, wetter or drier pockets within the same garden.

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are essential nutrients that plants need in much smaller amounts than macronutrients. They include elements such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), chlorine (Cl) and nickel (Ni).

Mineral

A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic substance found in soil, rock and other natural materials. Some minerals provide nutrients that plants can use, while others influence soil structure, drainage or chemistry.

Moisture Retention

Moisture retention describes how well soil or a growing medium holds water and keeps it available to plant roots. Good moisture retention can reduce how quickly soil dries out, but too much retained moisture can contribute to poor drainage or waterlogging.

Monoculture

A monoculture is an area planted mainly with a single plant species or crop. Because there is less diversity within the system, more human intervention may be needed to maintain plant health, often through additional watering, fertilising, pest management or other inputs.

Mountain Slopes

Mountain slopes are inclined areas of land where conditions can vary with elevation, direction, soil depth and exposure. Plants growing there may experience different levels of wind, moisture, temperature and sunlight over relatively short distances.

Mulch

Mulch is a layer of material placed over the soil surface to help retain moisture,
reduce weed growth, moderate soil temperature and protect exposed soil. Organic mulches, such as bark, leaves or wood chip, gradually break down and contribute organic matter to the soil, while inorganic mulches, such as gravel or rock, provide surface cover without breaking down in the same way.

Mycorrhizae

Mycorrhizae are fungi that form close relationships with the roots of many plants. These fungi can help plants access water and nutrients from the soil, while receiving sugars from the plant in return. Not all plants form or rely on these relationships in the same way.

Native-Friendly Companion

A native-friendly companion is a plant that grows well alongside native species
and suits similar garden conditions. It may be native or non-native and can be
used to add diversity, fill a particular garden role or extend seasonal interest.

Native Plant

A native plant is a species that occurs naturally within a particular country or region without having been introduced by people. In Australia, a plant may be native to the country without being naturally found in every local area.

Naturalised

A naturalised plant is an introduced species that can survive and reproduce without ongoing human help. A naturalised plant is not automatically invasive, although some may spread further over time and become environmental weeds.

Neutral

Neutral describes a soil or substance with a pH of around 7, sitting between acidic and alkaline. Most garden soils naturally vary above or below this depending on their makeup and local conditions.

Nitrogen (N)

Nitrogen is an essential plant nutrient that supports leafy growth, stem development and chlorophyll production. Too little or too much nitrogen can affect how a plant grows, so more is not always better.

Nitrogen Fixing

Nitrogen fixing refers to a process where certain bacteria convert nitrogen from the air into forms that plants can use. Some plants, particularly legumes, form relationships with these bacteria around their roots, which can help add usable nitrogen to the surrounding system over time.

NPK

NPK refers to nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), three major nutrients commonly listed on fertiliser packaging. These numbers show the relative amounts present, but they do not represent everything a plant needs and should not be treated as a complete measure of soil or plant health.

Obovate (Leaf Shape)

Obovate describes a leaf shape that is broader towards the tip and narrower towards the base. It is often compared to an upside-down egg shape.

Open Forest

Open forest is a natural vegetation type where trees form a canopy with enough space between them for light to reach the lower layers. This allows grasses, shrubs
and other plants to grow beneath the trees.

Organic Fertiliser

Organic fertilisers are made from plant, animal or naturally occurring mineral sources rather than being fully manufactured from synthetic ingredients. The term “organic” does not automatically mean a product is safer, better or more suitable for every garden. Naturally occurring substances can still cause problems if they are inappropriate for the plant, soil or amount used, so application should still be based on what the garden actually needs.

Organic Matter

Organic matter is material that comes from living or once-living things, such as
leaves, roots, compost and animal material. As it breaks down, it can improve soil structure, moisture retention and nutrient availability while supporting
soil organisms.

Ornamental

An ornamental plant is grown mainly for its appearance, such as its flowers, foliage, form or fruit. Ornamental plants may still provide other benefits, including habitat, shade or food for wildlife.

Partial Sun / Part Sun

Partial sun describes a position that receives some direct sunlight each day, usually for fewer hours than a full-sun position. The timing and intensity of that light can matter, with morning sun often being gentler than strong afternoon sun.

Perennials

Perennials are plants that live for more than two years and continue growing across multiple seasons. Some remain evergreen, while others may die back for part of the year before regrowing when conditions improve. When we describe a plant as perennial on our website, we are referring to how it generally behaves in our South East Queensland conditions; the same plant may behave differently in another climate.

Pests

Pests are organisms that are considered unwanted because they damage plants, compete for the same food we want to grow or otherwise disrupt the garden. They can include insects, mites, snails, slugs and other animals.

Pests are still part of the wider ecosystem and often provide food for birds, reptiles, insects and other wildlife. At Livable Garden Centre, our aim is not to remove them entirely, but to keep their numbers under control so the garden can remain healthy and productive.

pH (Potential of Hydrogen)

pH measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale from 0 to 14, with 7 considered neutral. Soil pH can influence how easily plants access nutrients and how well they grow.

Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is an essential plant nutrient involved in energy transfer, root development, flowering and seed formation. Plants need it in appropriate amounts, but excess phosphorus can cause problems for some species, particularly certain Australian natives.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process plants use to turn light, carbon dioxide and water into sugars for energy and growth. Oxygen is released as part of this process.

Pioneer Species

Pioneer species are plants that are among the first to grow in bare, damaged or disturbed areas. They are often able to cope with difficult conditions and can help prepare the area for other plants by protecting the soil, adding organic matter, providing shelter and gradually changing growing conditions.

In gardens, pioneer plants can be useful when establishing new or degraded areas, even if they are not intended to remain there permanently.

Playground Planting

Playground planting refers to plants selected for areas where children regularly play. These plants are generally chosen to reduce risks from thorns, irritating sap, toxic plant parts or brittle growth, while still suiting the conditions of the site. Individual sensitivities and circumstances can vary, so personal research and supervision are still important when choosing plants for play areas.

Pollination

Pollination is the transfer of pollen from one part of a flower to another so the plant can reproduce. It may happen through insects, birds, wind or other animals, depending on the plant.

Pollinator-Friendly

Pollinator-friendly plants provide useful resources such as nectar, pollen or suitable flowers for animals involved in pollination. These can include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, birds and other species.

Poolside Planting

Poolside planting refers to plants suited to the conditions around swimming pools, which can include reflected heat, strong sunlight, occasional splash and limited
planting space. Suitability still depends on the species and the specific pool environment.

Potassium (K)

Potassium is an essential plant nutrient involved in water regulation, cell function and many processes linked to growth, flowering and fruit development. Plants need it in the right balance with other nutrients rather than simply in higher amounts.

Potting Mix

Potting mix is a growing medium designed for plants grown in containers rather than directly in the ground. It usually combines materials that provide support, drainage, air and moisture retention, and may also contain added nutrients. Many commercial potting mixes include slow-release fertilisers, which are often synthetic. This is not necessarily a problem, but it is useful to know what has already been added before applying additional fertiliser.

Predatory Insects

Predatory insects are insects that feed on other insects and can help keep some garden pests in check. Examples include ladybirds, lacewings, assassin bugs and
praying mantises.

Pruning

Pruning is the selective removal of stems, branches, flowers or other plant growth. It can be used to manage size and shape, remove damaged growth, improve airflow or encourage new growth and flowering, depending on the plant.

Rain Garden

A rain garden is a planted area designed to temporarily collect and slow rainwater runoff. It can help water soak into the ground, reduce erosion and support plants that can cope with changing moisture levels.

Rainforest

Rainforest is a natural habitat with dense vegetation and a layered canopy that creates shaded, humid conditions. Rainforests usually support a high diversity of plants, animals, fungi and other organisms.

Rainforest Margin

A rainforest margin is the transitional area between rainforest and surrounding habitats such as open forest or grassland. These areas often experience more light, wind and temperature variation than the rainforest interior.

Rhizome

A rhizome is an underground stem that grows horizontally and can produce roots and new shoots along its length. It helps some plants spread, store energy and regrow after seasonal changes or disturbance. Rhizomes can also remain dormant in the soil until conditions become more favourable.

Riparian Zone

A riparian zone is the area of land alongside a creek, river or other waterway. These areas can help reduce erosion, filter runoff and provide habitat, while often experiencing changing conditions between wet and dry periods.

Robust / Hardy

Robust or hardy plants can generally tolerate a wider range of growing conditions or short periods of stress once established. This does not mean they are maintenance-free or suitable for every site.

Rock Garden / Dry Garden

A rock or dry garden is designed for plants suited to free-draining conditions and lower water availability. These gardens often use gravel, rocks and plants adapted to shallow, sandy or dry soils.

Rocky Gullies

Rocky gullies are narrow, sloping or low areas with exposed rock and variable moisture. They can create sheltered microclimates and support plants adapted to rocky soils, drainage changes and irregular water flow.

Root Ball

The root ball is the main mass of roots and growing medium around a plant’s roots when it is removed from a pot or the ground. Keeping the root ball intact during planting can help reduce root disturbance and gives the plant a better chance of establishing successfully.

Root-Bound

A root-bound plant has roots that have filled the available space in a pot and
begun circling or tightly packing around the root ball. This can leave very little growing medium around the roots and may make watering more difficult. Some root-bound plants may need gentle root loosening or other preparation before planting to encourage roots to grow into the surrounding soil.

Root Rot

Root rot is damage to plant roots caused when roots remain in unsuitable conditions, often including prolonged waterlogging and poor oxygen levels. Fungi and other microorganisms may then contribute to further root decline, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant.

Salt Tolerant

Salt-tolerant plants can cope with some exposure to salt in the soil, water or air. Their level of tolerance varies, so suitability will still depend on the amount, type and frequency of exposure.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil contains a high proportion of large soil particles, allowing water to drain through quickly. It can dry out faster and hold fewer nutrients than heavier soils, so plant choice and/or soil improvement may be important.

Sclerophyll

Sclerophyll plants have tough, firm leaves that help them cope with dry or nutrient-poor conditions. These plants are common in many Australian environments.

Screening Plant

A screening plant is used to create privacy, block views, reduce wind or separate different areas of a garden. Suitable plants are usually chosen for their mature height, width, density and response to pruning.

Scrubland

Scrubland is a natural habitat dominated by shrubs and smaller woody plants rather than tall trees. The density and plant types can vary depending on climate, soil and rainfall.

Seasonal Colour

Seasonal colour refers to plants that provide noticeable colour at particular times of the year through flowers, foliage, fruit or new growth. The timing and intensity of colour can vary with climate and growing conditions.

Semi-arid

Semi-arid describes a climate with relatively low rainfall, but more moisture than an arid climate. Plants in these areas are generally adapted to extended dry periods and irregular rainfall.

Shade-Giving Plant

A shade-giving plant is grown partly for the shade created by its canopy or foliage. The amount of shade provided depends on the plant’s mature size, shape, density and seasonal growth.

Shrublands

Shrublands are natural habitats where shrubs form the main vegetation layer. They can range from open to dense and occur across a wide variety of climates and soil types.

Slow-Growing

Slow-growing describes a plant that increases in size relatively gradually compared with other plants of a similar type. Actual growth rate can vary depending on climate, soil, water, light and care. Slower growth can be useful in gardens where less frequent pruning or management is preferred, as changes tend to happen more gradually.

Soil Biology

Soil biology refers to the living organisms within soil, including bacteria, fungi, insects, worms and other microorganisms. These organisms help break down organic matter and cycle nutrients, which can make some nutrients more available for plants to use.

Soil Improver

A soil improver is a plant or material that helps support soil condition over time. Plants can contribute by protecting the soil surface, adding organic matter, supporting soil organisms, accessing nutrients from different depths or influencing soil structure through their roots.

Soil Structure

Soil structure describes how soil particles and organic matter are arranged and held
together. Different plants prefer different balances of air, drainage, moisture retention and root space, so there is no single soil structure that is best for every plant. It is useful to understand what your plants prefer before changing the soil, although adding organic matter can support many soil types.

Specimen Plant

A specimen plant is selected to stand out because of its form, foliage, flowers, size or other distinctive features. It is often positioned where it can be appreciated as an individual plant rather than blending into a larger planting, and may also be referred to as a feature plant.

Spread

Spread describes the approximate width a plant is expected to reach at maturity. On our website, this is an estimate for typical suburban garden conditions and may vary with climate, soil, water, pruning and other growing conditions.

Subalpine

Subalpine describes natural habitats found at higher elevations, usually below the alpine zone. These areas often experience cooler temperatures, stronger winds and shorter growing seasons.

Subtropical

Subtropical describes a climate between tropical and temperate zones, usually with warm to hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall, humidity and seasonal patterns can vary considerably between subtropical regions. It is the most common climate zone across South East Queensland, although other climate conditions can also occur within the region.

Subtropical Coastal Rainforests

Subtropical coastal rainforests are rainforest communities found in warm, humid coastal and near-coastal areas. They usually contain layered vegetation, evergreen trees, high plant and animal diversity, and generally greater water availability than surrounding drier habitats. Seasonal dry periods and drought can still occur.

Succession / Ecological Succession

Ecological succession is the gradual change in plant and animal communities over time. Pioneer species may establish first, helping change the conditions so other plants can follow, with the ecosystem continuing to develop as those relationships change.

Suitable for Colder Climates

Plants described as suitable for colder climates can generally tolerate cooler
temperatures than many other plants in our range. Their response will still depend on factors such as frost severity, duration, exposure, plant age and local growing conditions.

Suitable Indoors

Plants described as suitable indoors can grow inside when they receive suitable light, airflow, moisture and temperature. Indoor conditions vary greatly, so a plant may still struggle if its basic growing requirements are not met.

Sulfur (S)

Sulfur is an essential plant nutrient involved in protein production, enzyme activity and healthy growth. Plants need it in smaller amounts than some other macronutrients, but it still plays an important role in plant development.

Swampy Coastal Heath

Swampy coastal heath is a low-lying coastal habitat where soils can remain wet or poorly drained for extended periods. Plants growing in these areas are adapted to seasonal waterlogging, acidic soils and other challenging coastal conditions.

Temperate Climate

A temperate climate generally has moderate temperatures with noticeable seasonal changes. Rainfall patterns can vary between regions, so plants suited to temperate climates may still have quite different water and temperature requirements.

Tendrils

Tendrils are thin, specialised plant structures that wrap around nearby supports to help climbing plants grow upwards.

Textural Interest

Textural interest refers to the visual effect created by differences in leaf shape, size, surface, form or growth habit. Combining contrasting textures can add depth and variety to a garden.

Topsoil

Topsoil is the upper layer of soil where most plant roots, organic matter and soil organisms are concentrated. Its depth and quality can vary greatly depending on the site and how the soil has been managed.

Trace Elements

Trace elements are nutrients that plants need in very small amounts for normal growth and function. The term is commonly used in a similar way to micronutrients and includes elements such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron and molybdenum.

Trailing Plant

A trailing plant has stems that naturally grow outward or downward rather than upright. These plants are useful in hanging baskets, over walls, along edges or as groundcover, and they do not necessarily attach themselves to supports.

Tropical Climate

A tropical climate is warm throughout the year, often with high humidity and distinct wet and dry periods. Rainfall can vary considerably between tropical regions.

Tropical Garden

A tropical garden uses plants with lush foliage, layered growth and strong leaf forms to create a tropical appearance. The plants do not all need to come from tropical climates, provided they can create a similar effect in the local conditions.

Tubestock

Tubestock refers to young plants supplied in small, narrow nursery pots or tubes. They are usually less established than larger potted plants but can adapt well after planting when given suitable care.

Understorey Planting

Understorey planting uses smaller plants beneath taller trees or shrubs where light levels are usually lower or more filtered. These plants are selected to suit the shade, root competition and moisture conditions created by the plants above.

Urban Garden

An urban garden is a garden created within a built-up area such as a suburb, townhouse, courtyard or apartment setting. These spaces can have particular conditions including limited space, reflected heat, altered drainage and changing light levels.

Variegated / Variegation

Variegation refers to leaves or other plant parts that contain more than one colour, often in patterns of green, white, cream, yellow or pink. The amount and pattern of
variegation can vary between plants and may also change with growing conditions.

Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening uses walls, trellises, frames or hanging structures to grow plants upwards rather than relying only on ground space. It can be useful in smaller gardens and for climbing, trailing or container-grown plants.

Wallum

Wallum is a coastal heath and wetland ecosystem found on sandy, nutrient-poor and often acidic soils in eastern Australia. It supports plants adapted to challenging conditions, including heath species, shrubs, sedges and wetland plants.

Waterlogging

Waterlogging occurs when soil stays saturated for long periods and there is not enough air around plant roots. Some plants are adapted to these conditions, while others may decline or develop root problems. If the soil remains saturated for too long, it can become anaerobic, meaning there is very little oxygen available for roots and soil organisms, which can eventually lead to the decline of the plant.

Waterwise Gardening

Waterwise gardening aims to reduce unnecessary water use while still supporting healthy plants. This can include choosing plants suited to the site, improving soil where needed, using mulch, grouping plants with similar water needs, watering efficiently and using systems such as wicking beds.

Weed

A weed is a plant growing where it is not wanted. What is considered a weed can depend on the garden, location and how the plant is behaving.

Wet Sclerophyll Forest

Wet sclerophyll forest is a high-rainfall forest type usually dominated by tall eucalypts with a dense, moisture-loving understorey. These forests often occur between rainforest and drier eucalypt forest communities.

Wildlife-Friendly

Wildlife-friendly plants provide food, shelter, nesting material or habitat for animals such as birds, insects, reptiles and small mammals. The value of a plant can vary depending on the species using it and the wider garden around it.

Wind Protection

Wind protection refers to plants used to reduce the force of wind across a garden or property. These plantings, often called windbreaks, can help shelter more sensitive plants, reduce drying winds and create more protected growing conditions.

Winter Interest

Winter interest refers to plants that provide noticeable colour, form or texture during the cooler months. This may come from flowers, fruit, foliage, bark or the overall shape of the plant.

Woodland

Woodland is a natural habitat with a more open tree canopy than a forest, allowing more sunlight to reach the ground. This can support grasses, shrubs, groundcovers and other plants beneath the trees.

Wow! Factor

Wow! Factor describes plants selected because they create a strong visual feature through colour, form, foliage, flowers or size. It is a design-focused term rather than a botanical characteristic.

Xerophyte

A xerophyte is a plant adapted to survive in dry conditions. These plants may have features such as water-storing tissues, reduced or tough leaves, deep roots or other characteristics that help limit water loss.

Xeriscape

Xeriscaping is a way of designing gardens to reduce the need for additional irrigation. It usually combines drought-tolerant or low-water plants with suitable soil preparation, mulch, efficient watering and thoughtful plant placement.

Yield

Yield describes the amount of usable produce a plant produces over a given period, such as fruit, vegetables, seeds or flowers. It can vary depending on the plant variety, age, growing conditions, pollination, water, nutrients and care.