- National Rhododendron Gardens
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The National Rhododendron Gardens are situated in the township of Olinda, Victoria, Australia, less than 5 minutes from the centre of town.
In 1960, members of the then Ferny Creek Horticultural Society, started another group known as the Australian Rhododendron Society. This new group got permission from the Forest Commission to establish a rhododendron garden on a 20 ha site, in 1975 a further 20 ha was given. In 1995 the National Rhododendron Gardens was taken over by a government sector known as Melbourne Parks and Waterways, which has since become Parks Victoria.
The National Rhododendron Gardens is a unique setting for cool climate plants with breathtaking views over the Yarra Valley. Seasonal changes ensure these Gardens are an all-year-round delight. When not in full bloom you can still soak in the beauty of rich bark textures, seed capsules, foliage shapes and beautiful fragrance as you stroll.
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The Natural Surrounds
On a misty morning there is a surreal atmosphere as the giant Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus regnans) tower out of the ground disappearing into the white fog. Most of these magnificent trees have grown since the fires in 1962. They are the tallest flowering plant in the world only outgrown by the Californian Redwoods. The Garden is 104 acres (40 hectares) in a long linear shape. The soil is deep, slightly acid, volcanic clay loam. The nature of the soil allows free drainage while it still retains good moisture levels on the clay particles. The average rain fall is around 1000mm (48 inches). Temperatures are on average 5 degrees cooler than off the mountain.
A Garden for all Seasons
Whatever time of year you visit there is always something to see. In early spring you can walk the golden mile of daffodils and see many of our camellias and magnolias in flower. By mid spring the Cherry Grove is in full flower. This time is also the peak season of flowering for the azaleas and rhododendrons and it is a pleasure to wander through the sprays of extravagant colour. Summer is a great time to walk the nature trail in the cool rainforest atmosphere or picnic in the cool shade on the Cherry Lawn and wander through the collection of conifers. The brilliant blue and white hydrangeas can be seen in full flower with many large banks of them planted around the garden. Autumn is ablaze with colour as the deciduous trees and shrubs turn every shade of yellow, red and orange. The views by the lake are spectacular as many of the hydrangeas take on rustic colours and are reflected in the cool calm waters. Winter is a season of contrast. The mists create an aura of mystery amongst the Mountain Ash and the air is always fresh and cool. Bare tree trunks and branches reflect in the mountain lake and in late winter hellebore and cyclamen flowers carpet the ground. The vireya collection can be seen flowering at all times throughout the year.
Facilities
There is a giftshop selling various garden related gifts along with a nursery stocking a wide aray of plants. Cafe Vireya is open during spring serving light lunches, morning and afternoon teas. The Garden Explorer (people mover) operates during spring offering visitors a comfortable guided tour of the property.
How To Get There
The National Rhododendron Garden is located 500 metres from the Olinda township along the Olinda - Monbulk Rd. Turn into The Georgian Rd. The car park entrance is 50 metres on the right. Entry is free (Melway Ref 66 K6)
For further information contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963
External links
Resources
Coordinates: 37°51′08″S 145°22′07″E / 37.8522°S 145.3686°E
Categories:- Gardens in Australia
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