Through our B&B Highway project we have been working to create regenerative habitats to improve biodiversity in urban areas. As we have worked on these habitats, we have seen a variety of introduced, native and endemic species - creating several opportunities for pollinators to forage throughout the year.
But what is the difference between introduced, endemic and native plants? Are they bad? And where can you get them from?
Native Plants
Native plants are probably the simplest to explain on this list. Theses are groups of plants native to a particular region (and it’s surrounding areas) and are otherwise known as Indigenous plants. One very common native Australian plant is the Bottle Brush.
The easiest place for you to buy native plants is at any plant supplier. One of our favourites is Indigigrow - a venture which seeks to combine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ knowledge about how to propagate the native plants they sell.
Endemic Plants
Endemic plants are those which can only be found in a particular region. These areas are often more specific than other native plants - as they are pickier with altitudes, climates, weather and soil. For instance, the blue lace flower can only be found in Southwest of Western Australia - particularly on Rottnest Island. We recommend you do some research before purchasing these endemic plants, as they tend to need a bit more time and care. The Botanical Gardens have quite a few tips and tricks for helping you tend to these gorgeous plants.
Introduced Plants
Introduced plants, as the name implies, are plants which have been introduced from overseas and are not native to Australia.Introduced plants are not bad by nature, and are often a good option to ensure your garden is pollinator friendly all year round - rather than just seasonally.
However, some introduced plants are invasive species that threaten surrounding environmental or agricultural resources. This is often caused by overcrowding existing native plants or the blocking of streams.
There are some easy ways to help minimise the impact of these invasive species. Some great resources have been developed by the federal Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment - their aim to protect our native species.
1. Stop the Spread
Our shoes, clothes and tools can often carry seeds or pathogens from different areas. It is important that you remember this and be wary of what you might be taking with you.
2. Arrive Clean, Leave Clean
As the name implies, arrive as clean as possible (of all other pathogens) and leave the way you came. Read more on how to avoid revegetation.
3. Choose safe plants for your garden
Instead of choosing potentially invasive plants for your garden, choose a native alternative. Visit the grow me website and learn the most common invasive species and their best substitutes.
When creating a regenerative habitat, it’s important to have a variety of introduced, native and endemic plants to attract pollinators. Try to avoid invasive species that may spread easily across a vulnerable ecosystem.
For some more information and ideas on creating habitat for pollinators, explore our B&B Highway pages and always feel free to get in touch through our contact us page.