The best wildflower season for several years is unfurling in the Pilliga as higher than average rainfall sets the scene for a spectacular spring.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Team Leader Ranger, Rita Enke, said the signs were already looking good, with a multitude of natives beginning to flower.
“Hardenbergia, boronia and wattles are already flowering and the buds of grevilleas, heaths, billy buttons, bluebells and various pea flowers are starting to burst,” she said.
“Delicate orchids such as pink fingers, waxlip and donkey orchids are also getting ready for a spectacular display, which is great to see as orchids need really specific conditions and some years, they don’t flower at all.
“With soils still moist from a wet winter, this year is shaping up to be a wildflower bonanza.
“I’m expecting the peak to be the second and third weeks of September. The weather’s warming up and it’s a great time to go for a bushwalk.
“There’s no shortage of birds currently out and about so don’t forget your binoculars,”said Ms Enke.
Annabel Greenup from Bilby Blooms nursery said she has been watching wildflower events in the Pilliga for several years and expects this year to be a standout.
“This season will be a spring wonderland, with a huge diversity of species flowering and an array of colours,” she said.
“More than 50 species of flowering plants can be viewed on a short walk in the Pilliga, such as Sandstone Caves or Sculptures in the Scrub.
“The Iconic Pilliga daisy has already started to flower and will carpet the ground in some areas. Keep an eye out for carnivorous sundews in damp areas”.
The wildflower wonderland is expected to stretch right across reserves in western NSW from September until early Summer.
Check the website before you travel and remember to book if you’re coming for more than a bushwalk: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
