Perth Hills Armadale Visitor Centre
20 August 2020
Springtime in Armadale brings with it so many joys, and the wildflowers have to be one of our favourite. From August through to November, pockets of colour burst to bloom throughout the Perth Hills, blooming flowers in all shapes, sizes, colours and varieties. You’ll be able to spot them in most bushland reserves and parks, here are a few of our top locations to get you started on your wildflower adventures.
1. Bungendore Park
Home to many beautiful wildflowers and complex topography, Bungendore Park is a great spot for a bushwalk through Jarrah and Jarrah-Marri forests, with some small areas of Wandoo-Marri woodland. In addition to wildflowers, Red-tailed Black Cockatoos are often spotted in the area, adding to the natural soundscape of the park with their loud squawks. Download a map or pop into the Perth Hills Armadale Visitor Centre for a copy.
2. Armadale Settlers Common
The 383 hectare Darling Ranges reserve is home to 318 different plant species, many of which put on a show during wildflower season. Striking golden bushes of wattle blossoms are sure to catch your attention and if you’re a keen observer, you’ll spot delicate little orchids and fringed lilies peeking out from the underbrush. The fully accessible Jeeriji Trail is a 1km loop and ideal for beginners, for those looking for a longer hike, pop into the Perth Hills Armadale Visitor Centre for a map and to plan out your route.
3. Araluen Botanic Park
You’ll go to see 155,000 blooming tulips, but you’ll stay to discover the incredible wildflowers. Araluen Botanic Park is surrounded by a beautiful backdrop of native Eucalypt, Marri and Blackbutt trees and bushland trails make a gorgeous contrast against the carefully manicured gardens. After marvelling at spring tulips, daffodils, camellias and magnolias, wander slightly off the beaten path where you’ll discover naturally occurring wildflowers like native wisteria and Australian flame pea.
4. Ellis Brook Valley Reserve
One of Perth’s favourite wildflower spots and with good reason! The Ellis Brook Valley is one of the most wildflower rich areas within the metro area, home to more than 500 species. There are several walk trails to discover, ranging from the all accessible ‘Easy Trail’ to the thigh burning ‘Sixty Foot Falls Trail’, climbing to the top of the falls. During spring the falls begin to slow down, running to a trickle in summer. With or without the falls, you’ll be rewarded by breathtaking views out over the Valley and Perth once you reach the top.
Walk with the experts
Interested in knowing more about your local reserve? Want to learn about the wildflowers, birds and history of each area? Join local experts for guided walks through our local parks and reserves, dates listed below. No need to book, just ensure you wear appropriate footwear and bring your own water and snacks. Contact armadaleenvironmentalcentre@outlook.com.au for more information.
Forrestdale Lake
When: Sunday 30 August at 8.30am
Where: Meet Forrestdale Primary School, Broome Street Forrestdale
Duration: 2 hours approximately 6.5km of easy walking
Leader: David James (Friends of Forrestdale Lake)
Lloyd Hughes Park
When: Sunday 13 September at 8.30am
Where: Meet at the end of Marmion Sreet, Kelmscott
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours of moderate walking, steep terrain in places
Leader: Barry Combs (Friends of Lloyd Hughes Park)
Bungendore Park
When: Sunday 20 September at 8.30am
Where: Meet at Bungendore Park entrance Admiral Road, Bedfordale
Duration: Approximately 2 hours of easy walking
Leader: Tony Clark (Bungendore Park Environmental Group)
Armadale Settlers Common
When: Sunday 4 October at 8.30am
Where: Meet at the Armadale Environmental Centre, 8 Triton Crescent Bedfordale
Duration: Approximately 2 hours, challenging walk in some places
Leader: Kim Fletcher (Armadale Settlers’ Common Working Group)
Harrisdale Swamp
When: Sunday 11 October at 8.30am
Where: Meet at the Carey Baptist College car park, Harrisdale
Duration: Approximately 2 hours. Flat site, medium skill walk with soft sand in some areas
Leader: Debbie Walker (Wildflower Society - Armadale Branch)