Where to Find Wildflowers on The South West Edge

Did you know there are more wildflowers in Western Australia than anywhere else in the world? WA is home to more than 12,000 species of wildflowers, with more than 60% of these found nowhere else.

If you’re travelling along The South West Edge between August and September, you will be able to spot these incredible displays along the way. Here are some of the best places to find them.

Margaret River – September to November

If you’re planning on doing a section of or all of the Cape to Cape Track, keep an eye out for wildflowers as you hike. This famous track has spectacular coastal scenery, fascinating geology and sensational wildflowers such as Vanilla Orchids, Wisteria,Clematis, Coastal Pimelea and Fan flowers. Often tucked away behind other foliage, you’ll need to be looking for these little beauties! If you prefer to forage for wildflowers in the forest, head to the beautiful karri-packed Boranup Forest in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Keep an eye out for deep blue Karri Hovea, trailing Clematis, yellow Cone bush and Patersonia.

Porongurup National Park – September to November

Porongurup National Park is rugged and stunningly beautiful. As you walk the trails through marri, jarrah and karri forest to reach the summits of weathered granite domes, you’ll find hundreds of wildflowers dotting the paths. When you reach the summit of the Porongurups, you’ll get panoramic views of the coastline, the nearby Stirling Range, surrounding farmland and vineyards. Amongst the granite and the scenic views, you’ll discover a diversity of native flora and fauna including the yellow Acacias and purple Hovea.

There are more wildflowers in Western Australia than anywhere else in the world. WA is home to more than 12,000 species of wildflowers, with more than 60% of these found nowhere else.

Fitzgerald River National Park – September to November

The pristine wilderness of Fitzgerald River National Park on the southern coast is perfect for anyone with a love of nature and a thirst for adventure. Here you can go bush walking, camping, canoeing, fishing, whale watching and of course, wildflower hunting! The park is a UNESCO recognised World Biosphere Reserve and is one of the most diverse botanical regions on earth, with around 1,800 species of flowering plants! Look out for Royal Hakea, Qualup Bell, Sepulcralis, Weeping Gum, Pincushion Hakea, Woolly Banksia, and Bottlebrush.

Cape Le Grand, Esperance – September to November

Wild coastal scenery, rugged granite peaks and sweeping heathlands characterise Cape Le Grand National Park. Once you’ve visited the main attractions and grabbed your selfie with a sunbathing kangaroo at Lucky Bay, it’s time to look for wildflowers! Keep your eyes peeled for gorgeous wildflowers including Banksia Speciosa and Banksia Pulchella.

Wave Rock, Hyden

As you head back towards Perth, you’ll be no doubt excited to see the ginormous Wave Rock. But don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for tiny wonders too! Take some time to explore the wildflowers around the area, and then enjoy a spectacular sunset from the top of Wave Rock. Wave Rock is famous for its rare orchids, Verticordia, Banksia, Mulla Mulla and Salmon Gums. There are more than 2,500 varieties in this area alone, so you’re bound to find some beautiful blooms.

Kings Park – September and October

Bigger than Central Park in New York, Kings Park and Botanic Gardens is WA’s most visited destination. Overlooking the picturesque Swan River and city skyline, Kings Park covers an expansive area of natural bushland, botanic garden and lush parkland. You can find more than 1,700 native wildflower species – right here in the heart of the city. The Kings Park Festival also takes place each September, with lots of special events that celebrate the diversity and beauty of Western Australia’s wildflowers.