AUTUMN 2021 Issue 128 $5.95

GOING UNDERGROUND FUNGI COME TO THE FORE

MEET THE NEW CEO • WHAT'S ON • FRIENDS FOR LIFE • WALKING TOURS Fortune’s keteleeria Keteleeria fortunei Introduced to Britain in 1844 by the British plant hunter, Robert Fortune, this great tree, related to the true firs, Abies spp., did not thrive in Britain. It was later sent to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney where it thrived and remains today a 30m plus giant. The massive trunk is clothed in heavy corky bark while the crown is too high to see well. It grows in the Palm Grove, bed 23a north of the Cryptogram House. A younger specimen grows in the Oriental Garden’s western edge of bed 50 where the attractive foliage can be appreciated. Margaret Hanks Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens Alice Bruyn

2 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 CONTENTS

FEATURES 16 ProfileMeet new CEO 16 Peter Thomas 18 Fungi x Botanica Two become one unique exhibition 22 Fabulous fungi Nature’s good guys 26 Rekindling connections How the Gardens are helping lift spirits during the pandemic

GARDENS NEWS 4 Garden Art Month Four exhibitions not to miss 8 Life Membership Two remarkable volunteers get the recognition they deserve 10 The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Why is autumn such a visual treat? 12 The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan Some expert tips on great native plants 15 The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney 15 18 Victoria Lodge hosts a new bush food experience?

IN EACH ISSUE 29 Plants A special cycad and some plants to look out for this autumn 32 What’s on A guide to autumn activities and events 38 Travel Walking in the Kimberley and Wildflowers in WA

32

On the cover

Aseroe rubra the Starfish Stinkhorn or Anemone Fungus, was the first fungus named and scientifically described for Australia. It is notorious for its foul smell of decaying flesh, which attracts flies that spread its spores. The image was captured by Sydney-based amateur photographer Glenn Smith, who specialises in nature and landscapes. Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens Alice Bruyn

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 3 NEWS AUTUMN UPDATE

Hopeful Honeyeaters by Pamela Pauline

GARDEN ART MONTH celebrate the natural world. And In DON'T MISS APRIL Four enticing exhibitions – all free for Progress 3 (27 April–9 May in The Calyx) SCULPTURE WALK entry – and a guided sculpture walk are will feature painters Lorraine Best and As part of this year’s Garden Art set to make this year’s Garden Art Richard Sakurovs, who draw on their Month, horticulturist Paul Nicholson Month a major drawcard for the Royal love of nature to explore new and will take visitors on a fascinating Botanic Garden Sydney. familiar landscapes. tour of the Royal Botanic Garden’s The marquee event, Fungi x One of the most intriguing elements sculptures, statues and memorials. Botanica, runs from 24 April to 9 May at of this year’s Garden Art Month will be Nicholson, who has been a Lion Gate Lodge. It combines the 21st Fragile Beauty Rich and Rare (6–26 April horticulturist with the Royal Botanic exhibition of Botanica with an artistic in The Calyx). Award-winning portrait, Garden for more than 25 years, foray into the fascinating world of fungi landscape and fine art photographer is also currently the manager of (for more details head to page 18). Pamela Pauline spent 18 months the Garden's Volunteer Programs, Garden Art Month will also feature capturing images of endangered flora, where he designs and leads two new exhibitions. Natures Best (22 before compositing and layering them bespoke tours for visitors and March–5 April in The Calyx) will focus to create the complex, contemporary, specialist groups. on the works of artist Cylene Whiteley, highly-detailed compositions that will “Each (of the Garden’s who uses a wide variety of mediums to be on display. sculptures, statues and memorials) has a story to tell,” he says, “revealing the fascinating evolution of values, aesthetics and artistic taste of society.” Tours will run every Wednesday during April (10am–12noon), with participants meeting at The Calyx. The price is $20 for Foundation & Friends members and $25 for the general public. For more information and bookings visit rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/ Parrots in Peril, Poised Palms whatson/Wednesday-walks and Yesterday by Pamela Pauline Photos: Carrie Alexander, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Carrie Alexander,

4 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 NEWS

FROM THE CHAIRMAN

NEW HERBARIUM MARKS KEY MILESTONES The new National Herbarium of New South Wales at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan is continuing to take shape, with installation of the building's stylish fly-roof structure due for completion by autumn. belated welcome to the New exhibitions and Alice Bruyn with events. Construction of the Herbarium's Year and a quick update for A warm welcome to both! rammed earth vaults is also now A our members and supporters. underway, while several fit-out EVENTS issues are also being finalised, PEOPLE I am pleased to report that we have including the design of the facility's Following the completion of an recommenced art classes and some audio-visual systems. executive search program the Board Australian trip itineraries. In addition, Meanwhile, a concerted push was pleased to appoint Peter Thomas we have established our Exhibition over December and January has as our new Chief Executive Officer – and Events program, with our first seen the number of discrete images I encourage you to turn to page 16 exhibition of the year – Fungi x stored and available for viewing in to learn more about Peter’s experience, Botanica – opening at Lion Gate Lodge the Herbarium's AWS cloud edging background and philosophy. on Friday 23 April. towards 400,000. Meanwhile we welcomed back Karen I trust you will join us to celebrate As part of the Herbarium's Vien, our former Chair of Finance, and enjoy our first-class events. Digitisation Project, more than Audit & Risk Committee, who agreed In the meantime, thank you all 515,000 specimens have now been to fill the casual vacancy occasioned by for your continuing support in these captured as high-resolution digital Peter as he now fills the CEO ex-officio challenging times. images - a remarkable achievement position on the Board. Also joining us Ian Breedon given the level of preparation, is Carla Armanet, Director, Experiences, imaging, transcription, and data Partnerships & Engagement, as the Chlorophyllum – Shaggy Parasol Garden’s new representative director. management the process involves. Fungi by Elaine Musgrave from The total number of digitised Carla replaces Dr Brett Summerell, the Fungi x Botanica exhibition specimens includes more than Director of Research & Chief Botanist, 86,000 packet specimens and almost who will continue to be an active 430,000 flat-sheet specimens. contributor to the Foundation & A further 600,000-plus Friends program. Herbarium specimens are now I am honoured to have been re- stockpiled for digitisation, while elected by our Board as Chair, and I can almost 70,000 transcriptions have also confirm Kate Horrobin’s re-election now been completed. as Deputy Chair. I look forward to In the last financial year, working with all Board members – along Foundation & Friends members with management and volunteer teams supported the Herbarium – to ensure our ongoing success. Digitisation Project by providing In the Foundation & Friend office, $750,000 in funding. two part-time staff members have joined the team: Julia Sparkes with Photos: Carrie Alexander, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Carrie Alexander,

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 5 NEWS

WHAT THE FLORA?! What the Flora?! is presented by the The Gardens has launched a smart and Gardens’ Science Communicator Vanessa engaging new video series called What Fuchs, who is also responsible for the the Flora!? The entertaining videos award-winning Branch Out podcast, explore some of the cutting-edge which since its launch in 2018 has research taking place at the new attracted more than 120,000 downloads. Australian Institute of Botanical Science “We’ve done videos before, but FRESH FACES AT COTTAGE 6 to protect Australia's unique plant life. nothing like this quirky style, which Foundations & Friends recently Topics will cover everything from is something you could imagine on welcomed two new staff members hand-pollinating tiny, endangered Netflix as a miniseries,” says Fuchs. to its Sydney team. orchids with toothpicks to battling “The aim was to produce something Julia Sparkes joins the organisation plant diseases with DNA science. light, fresh and modern that engages as part-time Exhibition Project The first episode – which went live people with the role plants play in our Manager. Sparkes, who recently in January – explains how scientists are lives, and the work our scientists are completed her MBA, brings to the using seed-banking to guard endangered doing to protect those plants. role extensive experience managing native plant species against bushfires “The videos will also help raise the creative projects. Her most recent (last summer, about seven billion trees profile of the new Australian Institute of positions included Studio Manager/ were impacted by the fires). New videos Botanical Science and show people the Art Director at Candle Bark are set to appear each month until May. diversity of research being undertaken.” Creations, and Studio Manager/ Operations Coordinator at content creation agency Studio Mondo. BLUE MOUNTAINS ROAD TRIP Outside of work Sparkes says The addition of a new roadhouse she loves to travel, but with diner has further enhanced the international borders shut for the Blue Mountains Road Trip – a joint time being, her energies are being initiative between the Blue Mountains directed to two little rescue dogs Botanic Garden and some of the she adopted last October. region's local businesses. New part-time Events and An interactive map on the Marketing Assistant Alice Bruyn SydneytoBlueMountains.com.au first joined Foundation & Friends website showcases 18 experiences as a volunteer, then worked at the that can be mixed and matched organisation as an intern. She is to create a fun trip from Sydney now actively promoting events to the Blue Mountains. and managing communication The newest addition to the with volunteers and members. collection of experiences, the High Born and raised in Tamworth, Hopes Roadhouse in Bilpin Village, Bruyn moved to Sydney in early is the brainchild of Sean Moran and 2020 and is currently studying Event his partner Michael Robertson, who and Hospitality Management also operate Panaroma restaurant at Kenvale College in Randwick. in Bondi. The Roadhouse is open “Working at Foundation & every day and offers country-style, Friends has really allowed me to locally grown fare, along with some combine my love for nature and Blue Mountains of Moran's best-known dishes. events,” she says. Botanic Garden Photos: Michelle Burke, Michelle Montgomery, Greg Bourke, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust and Domain Trust Bourke, © Royal Botanic Gardens Greg Photos: Michelle Burke, Montgomery,

6 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 NEWS

FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

AIBS SET FOR ONLINE LAUNCH The Gardens is officially launching the new Australian Institute of Botanical Science (AIBS) next month with an exciting online event on Thursday 25 March. AIBS consists of the physical and virtual scientific collections, research, facilities and staff at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Australian Botanic Garden Mount t’s been an exciting start to the year, camaraderie as the Gardens faced one Annan and the Blue Mountains and we are certainly getting back of its biggest natural threats in history. Botanic Garden Mount Tomah. Iinto the swing of things across the Works continue to move at a fast It will be one of the nation’s Gardens with a busy schedule of pace at the New Herbarium in Mount premier botanical research activity already taking place. Annan, which is on track for completion organisations and will help I would like to congratulate Peter later this year. I am constantly ensure the survival of plants and Thomas on his appointment as the impressed by the level of build more resilient ecosystems ongoing CEO of Foundation & Friends. professionalism from the construction for future generations. Carla Armanet, Director of Experiences, team, the architects and all staff. Hosted by the Garden’s Chief Partnerships & Engagement at the Climate change is of course a global Executive, Denise Ora, the launch Botanic Gardens Greater Sydney, was challenge and we have a responsibility event will take place on 25 March also recently appointed to the to lead, encourage, and contribute to and feature an impressive line up Foundation & Friends’ Board and she is research, particularly relating to plants of speakers and guests. already working closely with Peter on and their habitats. With that in mind, Stay tuned for more details on exciting fundraising opportunities for we are taking a bold step forward by the Garden’s website and social our wonderful Gardens. launching the Australian Institute of media channels, as well as the Through the Smoke, Through our Botanical Science on 25 March 2021 – Foundation & Friends eNewsletter. Eyes is an exhibition launching in through its establishment we have March 2021 showing firsthand accounts ambitious plans to expand and elevate and experiences from the staff at our role in botanical science on a local, THE GARDENS FAREWELLS Mount Tomah during the 2019 Gospers national and global scale. The virtual FORMER EDITOR Mountain bushfire. I hope that you can launch is open to everybody and I Gina Hetherington, Editor of The Gardens visit this exhibition to see the artworks would be thrilled by your attendance magazine since 2017, was sadly forced created entirely by the staff, each one (see story this page). to step down from the role late last year tells a different story of survival and Denise Ora due to ill health. Foundation & Friends CEO Peter Thomas paid tribute to Hetherington’s dedication and creativity. “Gina’s hard work ensured The Gardens was an entertaining, informative and valuable source of information,” he says. “Thank you on behalf of all our members, and best of luck as you focus on your recovery”. Meanwhile, journalist and editor David Carroll has stepped into the role as Guest Editor. Carroll, who has a background in science and New exhibition, Through communications, brings more than the Smoke, Through our 25 years’ experience to the role. Eyes, open in March Photos: Michelle Burke, Michelle Montgomery, Greg Bourke, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust and Domain Trust Bourke, © Royal Botanic Gardens Greg Photos: Michelle Burke, Montgomery,

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 7 NEWS

LIFE REWARDS THE TRULY COMMITTED

s volunteers, Juvie Ormonde Today, he remains a key member position of Company Secretary became and Raoul de Ferranti have of the team that runs Growing Friends. available in 2008, the organisation’s Ashared a number of milestones. “We now have separate teams in then Chief Executive asked if she’d take In the mid-2000s, after retiring from Sydney for each day of the week who on the role. Thirteen years later she their respective careers, both began propagate and sell, plus a team to sell continues to shoulder the responsibility. volunteer work with Friends of the on Saturdays. And we have significantly For Juvie the most rewarding aspect Botanic Gardens. In 2008 each stepped expanded the team at Mount Annan. of her involvement with Foundation up to serve on key roles on the The total sales revenue we raise has & Friends has been the people organisation’s committee. And 13 years gone up from around $30,000 a year encountered and the friendships later, their outstanding contributions to more than $200,000. forged, particularly through her have been recognised with Life “The most rewarding aspect for involvement with the organisation’s Membership awards. Upon hearing me has been the improvements we’ve many fund-raising exhibitions. of their awards, the two also shared made in the volume, range and quality “The variety of people I’ve met has almost precisely the same response: of the products we create and the been one of the great benefits of an “There are others more deserving”. reputation that we’ve developed. There amazing experience. And of course Plenty, including the Foundation are always challenges in organising and its satisfying to know that funds raised & Friends Board, would disagree. coordinating separate teams, but it’s through the exhibitions are helping Raoul’s interest in supporting the also been immensely satisfying to work ensure the Gardens survive and Gardens was piqued in 1998 when his with such a disparate group of people support their work in the study and mother passed away and he and his who are so passionate and bring such conservation of plants.” So satisfying, sisters made a donation towards the a range of skills to the organisation.” she says, that being awarded Life construction of a small pavilion at the Juvie Ormonde’s initial involvement Membership elicited mixed emotions. Blue Mountains Botanic Garden to with Friends of the Botanic Gardens had “There are so many others who have memorialise their parents. A couple of more to do with timing than sentiment. been volunteering for longer, I felt a years later, having retired from a long “I love plants and gardens so I little bit like ‘why should I be rewarded?’” career in the mining sector – during joined the organisation in late 2005 she says. “Especially for something which he nurtured a strong interest in and after I retired I started looking for from which I get so much benefit.” the Australian bush – the Gardens were volunteer jobs in cultural institutions,” Raoul was equally surprised and on his radar for volunteer activities. she says. “I applied for a couple and humbled: “If anything, it made me realise “The problem was that I had to wait Friends were the ones who got in first.” how many others have been growing for for a spot to become available on the Juvie’s career had seen her work even longer than me and are equally Growing Friends team, which only as an auditor and regulator of major or more deserving of recognition.” operated on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” financial institutions for the Auditor- Understandably both are keen he says. “I was finally able to come General of New South Wales and advocates of volunteering and encourage onboard in 2004 when a Wednesday the Australian Prudential Regulation members to get involved in projects that team was created.” Authority. So, not surprisingly, when the genuinely interest them. Raoul quickly became involved “It’s important to identify the skills in developing the nursery space in you have that can make an organisation Sydney and within a couple of years better,” says Juvie. “And then be was helping coordinate the Growing prepared to bring a sense of adaptability, Friends operation. By 2008 he was ‘It’s been immensely determination, and commitment, you President of Friends, and following its can’t do a little bit and then drop off. merger in 2012 with the Foundation he satisfying to work You also need an appreciation for other took on the role of Deputy Chairman with such a disparate people’s views, and of course you need for another three years, only stepping a good sense of humour!” down from the Board in late December. group of people’ David Carroll Photos: Alice Bruyn

8 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 NEWS Photos: Alice Bruyn

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 9 IN FOCUS Photos: Jaimie Plaza, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Photos: Jaimie Plaza, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden

10 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 IN FOCUS

SHEDDING LIGHT ON AUTUMN’S COLOURS

WITH SUMMER FADING, MORE SOMBRE SHADES WILL SOON TRANSFORM MOUNT TOMAH’S FOLIAGE. SENIOR HORTICULTURIST MARION WHITEHEAD EXPLAINS THE FORCES THAT FASHION A VISUAL TREAT

s we approach autumn, Sydney’s Meanwhile, the reds we see in see some autumn colours, it’s also an weather can often be a little spectacular autumn foliage are created opportunity to stand back and appreciate Aconfusing, leaving us in two by the reaction of the last of the sugars how little control we have over nature minds as to whether we put away our created by the chlorophyll with proteins and how it can continue to surprise us. summer clothes and reach for more in the cell sap, resulting in a purply-red The good news is that there is still snug attire. We aren’t the only ones pigment called anthocyanin. The plenty of colour to see at the Blue a little baffled by the weather: a quick production of this pigment requires Mountains Botanic Garden Mount look around Mount Tomah suggests specific environmental conditions, Tomah: the proteas are putting on a there are plenty of trees also at a loss including lots of sunlight, temperatures lovely display, there are beautiful pink as to what they should wear. slightly above freezing and low rainfall. and white nerines, cyclamen and Autumn colours, which are generally Unfortunately, due to unseasonably begonias in the Formal Garden and at their most vibrant at Mount Tomah warm weather, we have in recent times there are dahlias blooming too. But in late April, are in fact caused by well seen far less of these red and purple if its traditional autumn colours you understood chemical changes in the pigments and just a glimpse of some yearn for, wander around the bottom leaves of deciduous trees. yellows. While it’s easy to lament the of The Residence and near the North As the temperatures fall and days fact that we might not occasionally American Woodland. become shorter, less light is available to the plants and, as a result, production of chlorophyll (the green pigment in a plant’s leaves) dwindles and eventually breaks down. Once the chlorophyll has deteriorated, pigments present in the leaf are revealed, such as carotene – the pigment which gives carrots their orange hue and autumn leaves their yellow appearance.

‘Once the chlorophyll has deteriorated, pigments present in

Photos: Jaimie Plaza, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Photos: Jaimie Plaza, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden the leaf are revealed’

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 11 IN FOCUS

HOT TIPS ON NATIVE PICKS

AUSTRALIA’S BEAUTIFUL, ADAPTABLE AND ROBUST INDIGENOUS PLANTS ARE THE MOUNT ANNAN HORTICULTURE TEAM’S ‘SPECIALIST TOPIC’. SENIOR HORTICULTURIST CHRIS COLE REVEALS JUST A FEW OF HIS TEAM’S FAVOURITES

Telopea speciosissima (Waratah) Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

12 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 IN FOCUS

Carpobrotus glaucescens (Native Pigface)

Grevillea eriostachya (Desert Grevillea) Dwarf acacia (Dwarf Wattle)

ount Annan’s horticulture team are found across Western Australia and that can tolerate extended dry periods take care of an incredibly produce a tall golden yellow flower in or strong winds. The large, daisy-like Mdiverse range of native plants late winter and spring. They are drought- flowers bloom from October to January spread across our woodlands, grasslands, and frost-resistant, making them a but also sporadically throughout the rainforests and horticultural displays (as low maintenance ‘must-have’ for year. The fleshy fruit and leaves have well as the new seedlings in the Nursery). most Australian gardens with full sun. been used by Aboriginal people as When it comes to native plants, home Pimelea spectabilis (Rice Flower) bush food and bush medicine. The fruit gardeners are also spoilt for choice, Another Western Australian beauty, is said to taste like salty apples and, which can make it hard when deciding Pimelea spectabilis produces the when roasted, the leaves have been which plants are best for your garden. largest flower clusters in the Pimelea used as a salt substitute. The juice of The following list is by no means genus and blooms in winter and spring. the leaves can be used to relieve pain comprehensive, but it does provide a This native plant does best in dry, from insect bites and early European good place to start if you are thinking sunny gardens but can be featured in settlers were known to use them as of making the switch to natives or want a pot with well-drained soil if you are an anti-scurvy treatment. to introduce a few sustainable – and in an area with humid, wet summers. special – plants to your garden. SUSTAINABLE AND STUNNING GREAT WATER SAVERS Dwarf acacia (Dwarf Wattle) UNIQUE AND BEAUTIFUL Doryanthes excelsa (Gymea Lily) Acacias (wattles) are the largest group Telopea speciosissima (waratah) A stunning Sydney local, Doryanthes of plants in Australia and our Wattle This is probably the most recognisable excelsa is found across the basin to Garden features many of the 950 Australian native plant due to its striking north-eastern New South Wales. They species, including Australia’s floral colour and the fact that it holds the make an excellent container plant and emblem Acacia pycnantha. Dwarf prestigious title of New South Wales' will provide a striking architectural effect species such as Crimson Blush, floral emblem. These evergreen shrubs to your garden. Plants grown from seed Austraflora Winter Gold, Bower Beauty are low maintenance and can be used will not flower until about eight years and Limelight are sustainable and as a feature plant in a large pot or of age so we recommend sourcing low maintenance options that provide garden bed. The flowers are mostly an established plant from a nursery. a vibrant sunshine-like colour in the bird-pollinated and will attract eager Carpobrotus glaucescens darkest months of winter. They are honeyeaters to your backyard. (Native Pigface) low spreading shrubs that require Grevillea eriostachya (Desert Grevillea) Carpobrotus glaucescens is a native well-drained soil in a full sun or partly We love grevilleas so much that we succulent that is perfect as a ground shaded position. If you have clay soil, dedicated a garden to display their cover, binding sandy soil and preventing plant it in a raised bed or mound the spectacular flowers. The Desert Grevillea wind erosion. They are a hardy plant soil to improve the drainage. Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 13 IN FOCUS

‘Make sure you Pimelea spectabilis stop by the Growing (Rice Flower) Friends Plant Sales'

Austromyrtus dulcis (Midgen Berry) Austromyrtus dulcis, known as Midgen Berry, flowers in spring and summer and has sweet-tasting fruit produced in waves, from spring to autumn. The fruit can be picked and eaten straight from the plant (the berries are white and covered in small blue spots, giving them a unique appearance). Midgen Berry is an easy plant to grow in gardens, containers or pruned as a small shrub perfect for small balconies and courtyards. Doryanthes excelsa Austromyrtus dulcis Bossiaea walkeri (Cactus Pea) (Gymea Lily) (Midgen Berry) Belonging to the native pea-family Fabaceae, Cactus Pea has flattened stems which are a pale blue-green colour that helps protect the plant by reflecting heat, and the tiny leaves have very few stomata which reduces water loss. Like most native pea plants, the Cactus Pea is low maintenance, very easy to grow and great for beginners. The peas can be harvested eight to 10 weeks from sowing and are a great source of Vitamin A, C and folate. The brilliant red tear-drop flowers open in spring and autumn making it a striking feature plant in any garden.

GET GROWING Hopefully we’ve sparked an interest or provided you with a few ideas. If so, make sure you stop by the Growing Friends Plant Sales at the Visitors Centre on your next visit to the Australian Botanic Garden and take a look at the selection of rare and Bossiaea walkeri endangered native species. (Cactus Pea) Photos: Karen L Wilson, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust L Wilson, © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Karen

14 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 IN FOCUS

VICTORIA LODGE BUSHTUCKER EXPERIENCE

HISTORIC VICTORIA LODGE, ON THE NORTH-EASTERN BOUNDARY OF THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN SYDNEY, IS NOW HOME TO A NEW ‘PLANTS TO PLATE’ BUSHTUCKER EXPERIENCE

he tour and tasting is led by The driving force behind the Aboriginal guides from Shared bushtucker experience is Shared The Victoria Lodge Bush Food T Knowledge – a renowned Knowledge Managing Director experiences are on offer every Aboriginal-owned company that Drew Roberts. Friday and Sunday: specialises in creating authentic Drew is an Arakwal, Bundjalung man Bush Food Morning Tea First Nation cultural experiences. from the Northern Rivers, making him $49 per person, 10am–11.15am As part of the Bush Food experience, a black sand, saltwater person. Born on participants take a tour of the Garden Gadigal country, Drew is an experienced Bush Food Lunch to learn how to identify seasonal bush teacher with a passion for sharing a $90 per person, 12noon–2pm foods and gain a deeper understanding First Nation understanding of plants Bush Food Afternoon Tea of Aboriginal heritage, culture and and the bush that has been passed $49 per person, 2.30pm–3.45pm connection to country. down from generation to generation. The lunch features a three-course “Knowledge is not something that meal showcasing seasonal bush foods you own in Aboriginal Nations, but For more information and bookings incorporated with everyday ingredients, something you share," he says. "Our please visit rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/ while the morning and afternoon teas vision is to contribute to a thriving bushtuckerexperiences offer an twist on the traditional high tea community with responsibility, respect (make sure to advise of special dietary with a variety of sweet and savoury bites. and reciprocity.” requirements at the time of booking). Photos: Karen L Wilson, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust L Wilson, © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Karen

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 15 PROFILE

BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS

NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PETER THOMAS BELIEVES FOUNDATION & FRIENDS IS PERFECTLY POSITIONED FOR GROWTH. DAVID CARROLL REPORTS

areers often follow circuitous botanic gardens,” he says. “We explored for manufacturing in Australia. Eventually paths to unforeseen destinations, not just the forests of Victoria but all I came to Sydney and fell into community Cbut a quick dig into Peter across south-east Australia and it and fundraising work, and after gaining Thomas’ past suggests Foundation & made me look at the world differently.” experience with a couple of smaller Friends’ new Chief Executive Officer is Thomas’ mother was also “a bit of an charities I joined Amnesty International, precisely where fate intended him to be. activist”, taking part in protests against the world’s largest community-based Growing up in an old weatherboard a freeway the Victorian government human rights organisation. house in the northern Melbourne planned to build along the Merri, the “Amnesty had been struggling suburb of Coburg, Thomas was family’s local suburban creek. to generate income for more than a nurtured by academics with a passion “Not only did the protests stop the decade and pretty quickly after arriving for science, education and the great project,” he says proudly, “they also I became the only fundraiser left. I outdoors. His father lectured in helped change the way Melbourne's ended up working across a broad range Geophysics at Melbourne University, entire river and creek environment of roles and management positions, while his mother worked within was looked at.” eventually becoming Chief Operating Victoria’s Education Department When it was time to start plotting Officer and Director of Fundraising. and played a key role in founding his own course in life, Thomas decided “It was a stimulating environment and Melbourne University's Australian to combine his creative flair and ultimately we had a lot of success: when Mathematical Sciences Institute. mathematical talents and study I started we raised around $4 million “My parents became involved in industrial design, which led him to work a year and by the time I left it was orienteering in the 1970s, which meant for a variety of manufacturing companies well over $25 million. We really grew we often went bush on weekends and in Melbourne in the early 1990s. individual giving through monthly invariably on those trips we’d visit local “Unfortunately, it was not a good time donations, along with the major donor and bequest programs.” The aim now, he says, is to use those skills and experiences gained during almost 20 years with Amnesty, to help evolve Foundation & Friends. “Our organisation has great foundation pillars. For a start we have

‘I'd like to see us play a key role in Proud gardener Peter and his mother in their family helping people engage home in Coburg, Melbourne with bigger issues’ Photos: Alice Bruyn, Lindsay Thomas

16 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 PROFILE

a passionate, committed and engaged volunteer base of more than 300 people, with more wanting to get involved. We also have an excellent and supportive relationship with the Botanic Gardens, which wants us to succeed. And the three Gardens are fantastic assets, with so many dimensions that people are unaware of, including the critical research taking place. “What we need to do now is identify new and improved ways for people to engage and contribute, so that we can build an organisation that is stronger, healthier and enjoys sustainable growth. “There are certainly plenty of opportunities. Each Garden for instance, is surrounded by different audiences and catchment areas, which gives us the opportunity to engage with more diverse groups and grow our supporter base. “It also feels a bit at the moment that – despite its three beautiful spaces, remarkable history and cultural connections – the Gardens are confined as a poor cousin to some other cultural and scientific organisations. Yet in terms of our current public discourse – whether its climate change, resilience to bush fires, the importance of open space to mental health, food supply and biodiversity, etc. – there is a real relevance right now to what the Gardens do. I'd like to see us play a key role in helping people engage with those bigger issues. “In addition, it’s vital that we use our position as an independent body to advocate on behalf of our members and the public. And that means there will be times – as there have been in the past – when we need to speak out to protect the Gardens from development and to push for things we want to see happen.” Finally, given the painful impact COVID-19 has had on Foundation & Friends’ finances, Thomas believes it is vital the organisation develops a more diverse funding base. “I’ve travelled extensively with my partner to gardens across the world, and they are so often better supported financially by their communities. “We need more people to know that if they want to get involved with the Gardens, Foundations & Friends is a fantastic way of doing so, whether through taking part in activities, making New Foundation & Friends a donation or leaving a gift in their will.” CEO Peter Thomas Photos: Alice Bruyn, Lindsay Thomas

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 17 EXHIBITION

BOTANICA HAS LONG BEEN THE JEWEL IN THE GARDENS’ EXHIBITION CROWN, BUT EVENTS HAVE CONSPIRED TO ENSURE THIS YEAR’S SHOW WILL BE SOMETHING SPECIAL. ROBBIE MACINTOSH AND SUE WANNAN REPORT

s a respected and renowned is the aptly named Amorphophallus Beverly Allen has done fungi on vellum, celebration of world-standard titanum. That’s the plant that produces as has John Pastoriza-Piñol, whose Abotanical art, Botanica is used a flower up to three metres tall that painting of Morchella elata (one of to commanding centre stage, but this smells like rotting meat and is often the edible black morels) will make year it is – for the first time – sharing called the corpse flower. Not only is the mushroom hunters salivate. the limelight with a collection of equally flower astonishing,but so is the corm John once said that his work exists striking portraits of the mysterious, that produces it – typically weighing “in a realm somewhere between the complex, often-underground world about 50 kilograms (although the hyper-real and literal, and the surreal of fungi. current world record holder is a plant and fantastical”, which pretty much Fungi X Botanica (24 April–9 May) at Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh describes the amazing, and little- combines the 21st Botanica, always that weighs 153.9kg). known, biosphere of fungi. planned for this year, and Fungi, an Several of Botanica’s best-known The world of fungi and mycelium is exposition originally scheduled for last artists have chosen to depict fungi this a scientific wonder; something we are year but postponed in the uncertainty year, giving them a foot in both camps. only starting to understand. Mycelium that marked 2020. is the earth’s underground natural Botanica sets a high benchmark in internet, mushrooms in all their forms Gymnopilus junonius the botanical art world. Many of the being the resulting fruiting bodies of by Beverly Allen artists have international reputations – this nearly invisible world. Reach down reputations that sometimes germinated and move a log and you will see a vast in those early Botanica exhibitions. array of fuzzy cobweb-like cells – that’s And Foundation & Friends has played mycelium, the network of fungal cells a significant role in the recognition that permeates all landscapes. When of excellence in this genre. you pick a mushroom (only about 10% Favourites such as Beverly Allen, of fungi produce mushrooms) you stand Angela Lober, Elaine Musgrave and on a vast network of fungal mycelium Susannah Blaxill will again be part which is the foundation of life. of this year’s exhibition. Among other things, mycelium is One startling image, by Leonie the grand recycler. It processes organic Norton, another Botanica favourite, decay, converting it to soil. Without this

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Medicinal fungi by Anna Voytsekovich

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 19 EXHIBITION

Amorphophallus titanum Minka Gillian Fairy Glen by Leonie Nortorn

metamorphic process, the plant world is focusing on mycelium for her Look also for Lynda McPherson’s would choke in decaying matter. Fungi contribution to Fungi X Botanica. beautiful Faeryland watercolour, are the building blocks of the ecosystem. Claire Stack, a Botanica exhibitor since of delicate pink and white fungi Along with old growth forests, 2007, has done an exquisite graphite emerging through leaf litter, mixed mycelium networks act as a significant on paper image of mushroom gills. with maidenhair fern. biological sink for carbon storage. It is Anna Voytsekovich, another Botanica Fungi X Botanica encompasses now being used in medicine, textiles, regular, has done a magnificent acrylic many genre, including photography, building materials, regenerating soils on stretched canvas of medicinal graphite, watercolour and acrylic art and to break down toxic material. mushrooms. Anna, who has a PhD in works, ceramics, glass, paper art and All of which provides rich inspiration botany, is known in scientific publications sculpture, all focusing on the magic for an enquiring artist. for her extensive work on lichens. world of fungi. It will be held at Lion Sculptor Minka Gillian, who works Ceramicist Jo Victoria has created Gate Lodge, which lends itself to a with found materials and whose beautiful porcelain-ware after watching subtle separation of the two aspects awesome Mind Garden exhibition a video on mycelium. “I’m interested in of this exhibition: BOTANICA recently attracted much attention, giving voice to silent histories,” she says. downstairs and FUNGI upstairs. Photos: Matthew Young

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Susannah Blaxill Morchella elata Book of Morels Mycelium #1 in the studio by John Pastoriza-Piñol by Jo Victoria

Ageing Cabbage ‘Videos of fungi by Elaine Musgrave will run throughout the exhibition’

MULTIMEDIA Highlights of the exhibition are not just on the walls. A range of interesting events and surprises are being planned, including: The Good, the Bad and the Delicious - a presentation by Edward Liew, Manager Plant Pathology and Senior Research Scientist at the Royal Botanic Garden, about how and where fungi get their food, which often dictates whether we regard them as the good guys or the bad. The presentation will also discuss how we use some of these fungi. Following the talk there’ll be a stroll through the gardens, ending up at Lion Gate Lodge for brunch, and a chance to see the exhibition. Tickets to this event cost $30 for members, 24 APRIL–9 MAY, 10AM– 4PM $35 for non-members. Lion Gate Lodge, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Videos about fungi will run throughout the exhibition, including OPENING NIGHT, FRIDAY 23 APRIL, 3PM–7PM the award-winning Mycelium Made, Join the Fungi X Botanica curators for the official opening of this year’s featuring Amanda Morglund’s exciting exhibition. Enjoy a drink and canapés in the beautiful Garden, and innovative use of mushroom take the opportunity to view and purchase works before the exhibition opens. technology in fashion design. Members $45, Non members $55 (tickets allow for one-hour of Keep an eye on the Foundation exhibition access, with drinks and canapés). Bookings are essential. & Friends eNewsletters for extra Tickets are available from rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/botanica. activities during the exhibition. Photos: Matthew Young

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 21 FUNGI

SO MUCH MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

FIGHTING DISEASE, FEEDING FAUNA, SUSTAINING FORESTS AND RECYCLING WASTE, FUNGI, SAYS DR BRETT SUMMERELL, DESERVE TO BE CELEBRATED AS NATURE'S GOOD GUYS

aving in the past dwelled on – probably because they are perceived with on fruit and vegetables in the some of the negative aspects as being more static than animals. That’s bottom of some of our fridges or Hof fungi as plant pathogens, it’s why mycologists are usually employed growing on substrates like leather now time – in the interests of fairness in schools of botany or, of course, in in very humid weather. and because they are the well- botanic gardens. These fungi are biochemical deserved focus of this year’s Botanica When people hear the term fungi, powerhouses with the capability to exhibition – to accentuate the positive. they usually think of mushrooms. This breakdown everything from plant For starters, it might come as a is a misnomer because the vast majority matter to aeronautical fuel. There surprise to learn that the fungi are of fungal species are microscopic and is great interest into researching possibly the second most diverse group broadly termed moulds, yeasts and the potential of fungi to sustainably of organisms after the insects – and mildews; only becoming visible when breakdown plastics and solve one of that diversity is simply spectacular. they form colonies that we are familiar the biggest scourges of modern society. The number of species of fungi is estimated at somewhere between 1.5 and 5 million, yet only around 120,000 of them have been formally described by mycologists. So, at best, 90 per cent of the fungi, and at worst nearly 98%, are still to be discovered and described. Given that, it is likely that huge numbers will go extinct before we even find and document them all. Fungi are in a kingdom of their own and are quite separate from the plant and animal kingdoms. Of the two however, DNA analysis has shown that the fungi are much more closely related to animals than they are to plants. The cell chemistry of fungi is also much closer to that of animals as they have a compound called ‘chitin’ in their cell walls. This is the same carbohydrate polymer that is found in the exoskeletons of spiders and other insects. It’s what gives the thin cell walls of fungi rigidity and structural support. That said, the study of fungi is traditionally associated with the study Hexagonia tenuis, the Honeycomb of plants as a subdiscipline of botany Polypore, at Limpinwood Nature reserve Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

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MYCORRHIZAE Hyacinth Orchid, Dipodium sp. Some of the most important fungi ecologically are those that form an association with plant roots. In this symbiotic relationship – called a mycorrhiza – the fungi reside in or on the plant roots and may grow out into the soil to dramatically extend the amount of the soil that can be utilised. There are different types of associations, with some mycorrhizal fungi forming specialised structures (arbuscules) within the cells of the plant roots while others grow on the outside of the roots (ectomycorrhiza). These fungi help in extracting nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous and minerals from the soil for the plant to use. A lot has been written recently about the network of roots and fungi and the possibility that this provides a means for individual plants to communicate with one another (it’s a subject explored, for example, in Peter Wohlleben’s The Hidden Life of Trees). Certainly, there is evidence of chemical signals relating to defence mechanisms in plants being transmitted between individual trees through the fungal network. The how and why of this are the subject of much ongoing research and some researchers have coined the term “wood wide web” to describe this phenomenon. Some plants have gone even further and can be completely reliant on fungi. In this type of symbiotic relationship – defined as mycoheterotrophic – the plant gets all or part of its food from parasitism upon fungi rather than from photosynthesis. A good example is the hyacinth orchid, Dipodium – a plant that is leafless, but produces spectacular flower spikes in summer. Relatively common in the bush around Sydney, this orchid forms an association with a species of Russula, a mushroom (common name brittlegills), that provides it with nutrition.

‘Fungi are more closely related to animals than they Hericium clathroides, the Icicle Fungus, Lamington National Park are to plants’ Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

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Cymatoderma elegans, the Leathery

Goblet, at Tooloom National Park and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

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‘Without fungi Trametes versicolor, the the planet would Turkey Tail Fungus, at Lamington National Park be submerged in dead plant and animal matter’

There is also increasing recognition of the importance of these fungal associations when establishing urban forests and other types of tree plantings in built up areas. All too often the soils in these situations are bereft of microbes – especially fungi – and mycorrhizal associations may not form. As a result, the trees perform badly, have difficulty establishing and mortality is higher. Tens of thousands of species of lichen Soy sauce also depends on the It is possible to artificially inoculate the are found even in the most hostile fermentation of soybeans by a fungal root system with some of these fungi and environments on Earth – from deserts mould, Aspergillus oryzae, while to use some of the technology that has to Antarctica. Lichens will grow on pretty creamy camembert and blue cheeses been developed by foresters to improve much anything that doesn’t move, and such as gorgonzola and roquefort are establishment. For example, when the it’s not uncommon to even find them relient on the growth of various species Wollemi pine was planted at the Royal growing on slow moving animals. of penicillium moulds to provide their Botanic Garden Sydney, we included unique taste and texture. soil and root material from around one FOOD AND MEDICINE of the very closely related hoop pines Fungi are an important food resource ROTTING AWAY from the Garden. Our research had for all sorts of animals, not just humans. Most of all the fungi are good guys shown that the Wollemi pine had a Native truffle fungi, for instance, are an because they are nature’s great couple of mycorrhizal fungal associations important food resource for wallabies, recyclers and decomposers. with a structure similar to that observed potoroos and bandicoots, which in If it wasn’t for fungi, the planet would in Araucaria species, so we presumed turn disperse the spores of these fungi be completely submerged in masses that placing soil and roots from around across the landscape in their dung. of dead plant and animal matter. Fungi these species might help the Wollemi And following the recent bushfires, contain a complex array of enzymes pine establish. It is still alive so we can’t a number of pyrophilous fungi fruited that break down cellulose and lignin, have hurt it! very rapidly, providing an important the key chemicals in plants and timber. Unfortunately we know so very little source of food for smaller organisms. They subsequently turn these into about these fungi and their identity. From a human perspective the most simple chemicals that can be more Many of the mushrooms we observe important fungi are the yeasts. These easily absorbed by plant roots so are mycorrhizal, but it is difficult to differ from most other fungi in that that they can grow more effectively. definitively link them to the tree species they are single-celled organisms and of Fungi are also essential for creating with which they are symbiotic. And course are the fungi that are responsible hollows in trees, which are critical there is a huge number that remain for fermentation. If it wasn’t for a yeast habitats for birds, mammals, reptiles unidentified, but with DNA fingerprinting fungus called Saccharomyces, we and all sorts of creatures. tools we are starting to define the wouldn’t have bread and we wouldn’t Ultimately, fungi are critical for relationship between the host plant have beer, wine, whisky and vodka. healthy ecosystems and a healthy and the fungus. Then of course there are a range of planet. And while a few species have fungi that we eat such as the common given fungi a bad name, there is no LICHENS button mushroom, oyster mushrooms, doubt that we, and all of the other Talking of symbiosis there are also shitake, saffron milk caps, porcini, organisms on this planet, would not a range of different fungi species that slippery jacks, and of course white be able to survive without them. live in a close beneficial relationship and black truffles (reputedly the most Brett Summerell is Director Research with an alga to create the combined expensive food in the world, selling & Chief Botanist at the Royal Botanic

Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens “organism” known as a lichen. for around $6,000–$7,000 per kg!). Garden Sydney

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 25 HORTICULTURE

CRISIS HELPS REKINDLE HORTICULTURAL CONNECTIONS

IN THE MIDST OF A PANDEMIC, PEOPLE HAVE LOOKED FOR WAYS TO LIFT THEIR SPIRITS, AND FOR SOME THAT’S MEANT RENEWING THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE NATURAL WORLD. JOHN SIEMON REPORTS

t’s hard to fathom the contrast of alcohol (including, hopefully, our outstrip supply and it has taken many between the extreme droughts delicious new Botanic Gardens Grown months, under tough and restrictive I of 2019 and the bountiful rainfall Gin). But it has also resulted in some conditions, to rebuild stock levels. of 2020, driven by a shift into La Niña astonishing outcomes for the After battling successive droughts weather patterns. environment. While we all appreciate the and water restrictions, where many plant With global events dominating our enhanced air quality and the reduced nursery’s failed to survive, the future for lives recently, many might have missed traffic on our roads, as a horticultural horticulture looks much brighter and just how green and verdant our three scientist it has been particularly heart- botanic gardens everywhere will play a Botanic Gardens and the Domain have warming for me to see society’s shift pivotal role resetting human behaviour been. In fact, one might imagine that back to nature and horticulture. and encouraging more people to many Australians have been totally The pandemic lockdown resulted in continue to enjoy parks, gardens and distracted from nature – interestingly shelves being stripped of plant seeds, nature experiences in the new ‘normal’. that doesn’t seem to be the case. seedlings, indoor plants and potted Over the last year many agencies The world’s fixation on the global specimens – a trend that the green life managing green spaces have recorded pandemic has certainly exacerbated industry desperately needed, and I only a significant uplift in visitation across some behaviours – one of them, not wish they could have foreseen. Even the nation. Our organisation is no surprisingly, being the consumption our Growing Friends has had demand exception, with year-to-date visitor numbers up 21 per cent at the Australian Botanic Garden and 25 per cent at the The revamped meadow at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden. An Royal Botanic Garden Sydney anomaly to the trend is the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney where visitation is down almost 50% – a combination

‘Shelves have been stripped of plant seeds, seedlings, indoor plants and

potted specimens’ and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

26 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 JOHN The horticulture team remains committed to creating awe-inspiring botanic displays, such as The Calyx exhibition inBloom, the topiary koala (below right) at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and the spectacular topiary bee (below left) at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 27 HORTICULTURE ‘Our next Calyx exhibition will transport you to an underwater paradise’

of missing interstate and international tourism, cancelled events and office workers working from home. Regardless of global events, each of our Gardens and the Domain remain a hive of activity – more so since the heavens opened, our turf has grown non-stop and dormant weed seeds have The Australian Botanic Garden's new returned with a vengeance. Extensive turf Nursery now boasts 7,000 square metres renewal and renovations, combined with of new and dedicated production space lower foot traffic, have resulted in some of the most spectacular lawns ever seen, Spring daffodils at the Blue especially throughout the normally heavy- Mountains Botanic Garden trafficked Domain. Our gardens continue to be carefully tendered by a remarkable and passionate team of more than 120 horticulture staff, ably supported by colleagues right across our organisation. While our core mission remains focused on plant conservation, we are as committed as ever to creating engaging and awe-inspiring botanic displays – let’s face it, everyone has needed a boost in current times! Reinforcing this role is our latest Calyx exhibition, inBloom, which burst onto the scene in August, followed shortly thereafter by our supercharged rain-boosted spring displays, particularly the Spring Walk (Sydney), paper daisies (Mount Annan) and daffodils (Mount Tomah). More recently, the revamped meadow at rare and threatened flora. And it will be While we get on with the business the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney an instrumental component in the future of saving plants, our teams continue has literally burst into life buzzing with development of the Australian Botanic to finalise plans for our next spring pollinators galore and blooms a plenty. Garden and the Australian Institute of and summer displays, a suite of garden Those of you who ventured out to Botanical Science when it launches this renovation projects, our exciting new the Australian Botanic Garden Mount year. A further upgrade of the Nursery Herbarium landscape at Mount Annan, Annan last year would have also (Stage 2) is currently being documented the trial garden in Sydney and the seen the rapid redevelopment of the to replace the Garden’s antiquated rebuilding of our collections at Mount Garden’s Nursery. It now boasts 7,000 propagation greenhouses with state- Tomah, including an exciting Wollemi square metres of new and dedicated of-the-art infrastructure to support our pine project. production space (equivalent to almost Horticulture and Science operations. And stay tuned for our next exciting six Olympic-size swimming pools), Capitalising on people’s growing Calyx exhibition, which will transport with the Foundation & Friends connection with nature, we intend you to an underwater paradise. generously donating one of the to increase our engagement with an John Siemon is Director new production shade houses. ever-expanding audience, supporting the Horticulture, Australian Institute This new infrastructure transforms broader green life industry and making of Botanical Science, Botanic the organisation’s capacity for producing real inroads to threats to biodiversity. Gardens Greater Sydney Photos: Nick Wood, Alice Bruyn, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Alice Bruyn, © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Nick Wood,

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GARDEN FOCUS

A BEAUTIFUL RELIC

CYCAD from sea level to the tablelands around over the years. Over very many decades Lepidozamia peroffskyana 1,000m above sea level. It is one of the this cycad has been known to grow Family Zamiaceae largest of all cycads growing in Australia. 5–6m in height. This is one of the slow-growing, It can be grown in tubs or in the These interesting and attractive long-lived cycads that is a relic of the ground, ideally in filtered sun or plants are not difficult to grow. They species that were abundant in the complete shade. Cycads are not related must have well drained soil or potting Mesozoic era, many millions of years to palms but their arching, spreading mix and regular, deep watering until ago. This Australian cycad species is fronds are palm-like in their structure. they are well established. Mulching interesting and attractive at all stages The Royal Botanic Garden has more the soil or potting mix surface helps of its growth. It was first scientifically than one specimen of this species maintain soil moisture in warm, dry described in 1857 by a Russian but the one to seek out is close to the weather too. Occasional applications botanist, from a specimen growing western edge of the Palm Grove in bed of weak, liquid fertiliser may be helpful in St. Petersburg. One wonders how it 25. It has a thick solitary trunk from in the early stages of growth. got there! The species occurs naturally ground level that branches out into Growing Friends Plant Sales on rainforest margins and sheltered four corner trunks. The shiny, stiff sometimes has young, seedling plants slopes, from sea level to around 1,000m fronds, with masses of narrow, sharp of this cycad for sale. In my view, these height, in an area roughly from Gympie dark green leaflets arch out from the plants are interesting and attractive at all in Queensland to Taree in NSW. There thick stems. Clearly, conditions where it times. It is always thought-provoking to is one other species in this genus of is growing are ideal. Dappled sunlight, grow a plant knowing that the species cycad in Australia which is Lepidozamia with shelter from strong wind and soil dates back to the Age of Dinosaurs! hopei. This species occurs naturally in that does not dry out readily have Margaret Hanks, Growing Friends, Queensland in an area north of Ingham, allowed this fine specimen to flourish Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Photos: Nick Wood, Alice Bruyn, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Alice Bruyn, © Royal Botanic Gardens Photos: Nick Wood,

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 29 PLANTS

PLANTS IN THE GARDENS

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE WONDERFUL PLANTS TO LOOK OUT FOR NEXT TIME YOU VISIT THE GARDENS

Camellia amplexicaulis Banksia spinulosa 'Birthday Candles'

AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN Banksia are an iconic feature of the Australian landscape and make a fantastic addition to the home garden. A stand-out is ‘Birthday Candles’, a form of Banksia spinulosa selected for its dense mounding habit (around 0.5m), to visit the Palace Rose Garden, where making it a perfectly-sized home ROYAL BOTANIC the modern roses put on a final flush garden plant – even for small GARDEN SYDNEY of flowers before the horticulturists gardens, courtyards and balconies. Autumn is one of my favourite times, give them their winter prune in July. In autumn and winter it puts on a with the weather finally cooling down Some of the best autumn colours show with masses golden candle- and many plants putting on wonderful can be found near the Oriental Garden, like flowers that are a favourite with displays before winter sets in. where a lovely Ginkgo biloba offers a nectar-feeding birds, providing In the camellia gardens, the sasanquas great display of golden foliage each year. much-needed food for wildlife are on show from April through May. In the Tropical Garden, facing the at a time when there is not much Some of our species camellias are Band Lawn, is the Hong Kong Orchid else in flower. A member of the also at their best including Camellia Tree Bauhinia x blakeana, which Proteaceae family, Banksia spinulosa amplexicaulis, which is unfortunately between March and July produces 'Birthday Candles' is related to thought to be extinct in the wild. This blooms that resemble those of an grevilleas and waratahs, so plant rare beauty can be seen flowering in orchid. Another wonderful autumn them together for an eye-catching late autumn and early winter in bed flowering tree is the Silk Floss Tree display. At home in the ground or 4b near Rathborne Lodge. Ceiba speciosa, which can be found in a pot, ‘Birthday Candles’ makes You will also find the Brazilian Red in bed 60 and just across the road for a very versatile plant. For best Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys in the Australian Rainforest Garden. results, always plant in free-draining – which makes a stunning large garden It is a great time to work in and soil and remove spent flowers. shrub with conspicuous crimson bracts enjoy the Royal Botanic Garden. Simon Reid, Horticulturist, – flowering prolifically in the Palace David Laughlin, Curator Manager Australian Botanic Garden Gardens. And autumn is a good time Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Photos: Ryan Newett, Greg Lamont, David Laughlin, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Mount Annan, © Royal Botanic Gardens Lamont, David Laughlin, Australian Botanic Garden Photos: Ryan Newett, Greg

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GROWING FRIENDS

Rhododendron ‘Max Sye’

BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN While at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, keep an eye out for Rhododendron ‘Max Sye’. The Garden is home to just over 600 named species and cultivars of rhododendron, and while most are at their peak in spring, Rhododendron ‘Max Sye’ looks amazing from March to May. A compact plant, it produces large clusters of deep-red blooms in autumn, with the benefit of second flush of flowers in spring. You can find Rhododendron 'Max Sye' on the Terrace stairs, between New to the Growing Friends’ the Cascade water feature, the viewing range, Gloxinia sylvatica deck and the Plant Explorers Walk. Ryan Newett, Supervisor, the introduction of bar-coded labels Ornamental Gardens & Nursery, SUPPLY AND DEMAND three years ago has enabled Team Blue Mountains Botanic Garden How do we decide what to grow Leaders to use sales revenue data for sale at Growing Friends? for propagation planning. In Sydney each of our five, week Plants can go in or out of fashion day teams – comprising around 12 but some plants such as Blue Ginger, GROWING FRIENDS volunteers per team – has a list of Coleus, Flannel Flower and Blue plants from which they propagate. Lechenaultia remain popular every PLANT SALES On average each team propagates year. We continue to add new plants about 120 different plants over the to our range as others drop out and The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney course of the year. especially popular at present is the Mon–Fri 11am–2pm, At Mount Annan we have three assortment of ferns and shade-tolerant Sat 10am–2pm teams and together they currently plants suitable for indoors and patios. propagate 110 different plants. That One thing is for sure: Growing The Australian Botanic Garden means that at most times we have Friends offers a wide range of plants Mount Annan more than 400 different plants for sale which perform well in the coastal Mon–Sun 9am–4pm in Growing Friends Plant Sales. climate of NSW, many of which are The Blue Mountains Botanic Availability can vary depending on not found in other retail nurseries. Garden Mount Tomah the supply of seed, cuttings or plant Greg Lamont, Horticultural Mon–Sun 9.30am–4.30pm off-sets, or the time of the year. But Supervisor, Growing Friends Photos: Ryan Newett, Greg Lamont, David Laughlin, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Mount Annan, © Royal Botanic Gardens Lamont, David Laughlin, Australian Botanic Garden Photos: Ryan Newett, Greg

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 31 DIARY WHAT’S ON

For more information about events, and to book, visit rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/whatson. All activities have been planned with your safety in mind, including social distancing and hygiene measures. Events with the BF symbol are organised by Foundation & Friends, and these can also be booked by calling the office on (02) 9231 8182.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

ASTRONOMY AT THE CALYX The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 23 March, 18 May & 17 June, 6.30pm–9.30pm Join us for a night of astronomy, star gazing and storytelling surrounded by the dazzling inBLOOM plant display. Travel through space to visit mysterious planets far from Earth! More than 4,000 planets have been discovered around other stars. Dr Angel Sanchez-Lopez or Professor Fred Watson will take you on a journey to these strange 'other' worlds. How do astronomers discover them? M $37 NM $41 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/astronomy

inBLOOM The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden CREATIVE COLLAGE WORKSHOP With Toni Mcdowell Open daily all autumn, 10am–4pm Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden, Thu 25–Fri 26 March, 9.30am–4pm Immerse yourself in a showcase of Explore the exciting possibilities of collage, originally invented by Picasso and colour, surrounded by more than 20,000 Braque. A great entry into making abstract art, this workshop stimulates ideas, spectacular plants and flowers, and themes and visual stories, while using plants as inspiration. Students will learn one of the largest living green walls in leaf printing and experiment with paper, string, bark, paint, crayon and ink. the southern hemisphere. Please note The result? Unique greeting cards and artworks ready to hang. The Calyx will be closed on 4 March. M $280 NM $320 R L i BF rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On Entry by donation. Suitable for all. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

KEY: M Foundation & Friends’ member NM Non-member MC Member’s child NC Non-member’s child F Free MT Morning tea provided L Lunch provided R Refreshments provided MP Materials provided B rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au BF Book through Foundation & Friends New member gift voucher can be used i More information with booking

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KOKEDAMA WORKSHOP ANZAC WREATH-MAKING SOUL SOOTHING SOAP MAKING The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Sat 17 April 10.30am–12.30pm, Sat 24 April, 10.30am–12.30pm Sun 2 May, 10.30am–12.30pm 1.30pm–3.30pm Come and join the team from This unique workshop is led by Wiradjuri This modern art form uniquely presents Merchant and Green and make a educator Renee Cawthorne. Renee plants and flowers encased in a beautiful, personally-inspired natural will share her knowledge of the healing magnificent moss ball. Using natural boho wreath for ANZAC Day. You qualities of Australia’s fragrant native sphagnum moss, natural fibre twine will take home a natural fibre wreath plants and lead you through the process and two beautiful plants, led by the with a focus on Australian flora and of creating soap using beautiful natural renowned team from Merchant and locally-grown eco-friendly materials ingredients. Take home your handmade Green, you will create and then take where possible. soap infused with aromas to wash away home this gorgeous living work of art. Suitable for ages 15+ your worries and soothe your soul. Suitable for ages 15+ M $90 NM $95 Suitable for ages 12+ M $92 NM $98 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On M $31.50 NM $35 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

GARDEN-GROWN GIN MAKING The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Sun 2 May, 1.30pm–3.30pm Learn about the curious history of gin and see how Phillip Moore, award-winning master distiller, skilfully distils gin using the French perfumers' technique of enfleurage to extract delicate scents and flavour NATURE AND LIGHT ART CLASS With Charlotte Thodey from hero botanicals. You will have Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden, Tue 18–Wed 19 May, 9.30am–4pm the opportunity to sample some The course emphasis will be on the close-up observation of nature and light. Garden-grown gin. It will look at the basis of drawing, the composition of objects on the canvas Suitable for ages 18+ and the setting out of the painting according to tonal values. Participants will M $45 NM $50 then proceed to the careful building up and layering of colour to capture the rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On light which reveals the fleshy essence of the fruit. M $300 NM $340 R L i BF rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 33 DIARY

EXHIBITIONS & CONCERTS

FROM THE HIVE… SWARMING TO THE CALYX Presented by Marijke Gilchrist The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Mon 1 March–Sun 21 March, 10am–4pm Inspired by the Australian outback and dramatic seascapes, Marijke is experienced across a range of THROUGH THE SMOKE, THROUGH OUR EYES painting mediums, collage and silk Exhibition Space, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Visitor Centre dying, and combines these with Thu 4 March–Tue 27 April, 9.30am–5pm the encaustic technique which uses This exhibition shows firsthand the experiences of Blue Mountains Botanic Garden heated beeswax and pigments to give staff during the 2019 Gospers Mountain bushfire. The exhibition is a moment of works an aluminous, ethereal quality. reflection, as well as a celebration of nature’s ability to be resilient, resourceful and Suitable for all ages F regrow. Showcasing artworks created entirely by the Garden’s staff, it tells a story www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On of survival and camaraderie as the Garden faced one of its biggest natural threats in history. Suitable for all ages F

SUMMER IN THE DOMAIN NATURES BEST FRAGILE BEAUTY, RICH & RARE The Domain – Phillip Precinct Presented by Cylene Whiteley Presented by Pamela Pauline Dates from March The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Summer in the Domain is a COVID-safe Mon 22 March–Mon 5 April, Tue 6 April–Mon 26 April, 10am–4pm concert series that will begin in March, 10am–4pm Informed by a lifelong connection to with headlining performer Vera Blue Inspired by the world of birds, nature, Pamela Pauline tells a story playing with the Sydney Symphony animals and plants, Cylene Whiteley of Australia’s endangered flora. With Orchestra. Other confirmed artists include has captured the detail of the natural careful research and guidance from Bjorn Again, Client Liaison, Confidence world and environment around us. expert horticulturalists, Pamela has Man and Touch Sensitive. Concert-goers The works are in various mediums spent the past 18 months photographing will be able to purchase pods that will including watercolour, acrylic, endangered flora and threatened birds be arranged to minimise congestion. graphite and coloured pencil. to highlight our biodiversity crisis and Suitable for all ages Suitable for all ages F to encourage conservation efforts. Tickets to go on sale in late February rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On Suitable for all ages F rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

34 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 DIARY

MARGARET FLOCKTON AWARD The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden June (dates TBC) The best international scientific FUNGI X BOTANICA botanical illustrators compete for prizes Lion Gate Lodge, Royal Botanic Garden, Sat 24 April–Sun 9 May, 10am–4pm in this prestigious annual exhibition Historic Lion Gate Lodge will host two exhibitions, side-by-side: Fungi and hosted by Foundation & Friends and the Botanica. The Fungi exhibition will encompass many genres including photography, Royal Botanic Garden. Ink, graphite and graphite, watercolour and acrylic art works, ceramics, glass, paper art and sculpture. digital works highlight the important The parallel Botanica exhibition celebrates its 21st anniversary and sets a high role of contemporary illustration in benchmark, showcasing the very best of botanical art from Australia and across botanical research around the world. the globe. Suitable for all ages F rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On Suitable for all ages F rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

IN PROGRESS 3 Presented by Lorraine Best & Richard Sakurovs The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 27 April–Sun 9 May, 10am–4pm Lorraine Best and Richard Sakurovs have been continually inspired by nature as they explore familiar and new landscapes. The uniqueness and diversity within Australia is 3THREE3 celebrated, with colour and texture The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden, Mon 10 May–Sun 23 May, 10am–4pm taking centre stage in their artworks. In the exhibition, artists Fiona Barrett, Mollie Pegler and Charles Barrett celebrate Suitable for all ages F nature's imagery. The artists use a variety of mediums including photography, rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On painting and mosaic to create an exhibition full of colour, dramatic light and movement. Suitable for all ages F rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 35 DIARY

GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED WALKS

ABORIGINAL CULTURAL TOUR GHOSTLY GARDEN NATURE THERAPY WALKS Meet at the Palm Grove Centre, Meet at the Woolloomooloo Gate, Royal Botanic Garden, Sun 21 March, Royal Botanic Garden Royal Botanic Garden 18 April & 16 May, 10am–12noon Every Wed, Fri and Sat throughout Fri evenings at sunset, 12 & 26 Australian Botanic Garden autumn (excluding public holidays), March, 9 & 23 April, 7 & 21 May Sat 24 April & 29 May, 10am–12noon 10am–11.30am Take a twilight adventure through Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Learn about the diverse history and the Garden in this spine-tingling Sat 6 March, 24 April, 11am–1pm culture of the Aboriginal people of the storytelling event, within the Garden Originating in Japan, Shinrin-yoku (or Sydney region. Uncover the Royal gates after hours. Hear spooky and forest therapy) is a preventative health Botanic Garden's rich Aboriginal kooky stories of the Garden's past practice that improves wellbeing by heritage by exploring plant uses, culture, as flying fox flit above your head. immersing your senses in nature. artefacts and tasting some bush foods. Suitable for adults and ages 12+ Facilitators guide participants through Suitable for adults and families with a reasonable level of mobility sensory experiences, mindfulness and Children under 7 years are free M $37 NM $42 nature appreciation and concludes with M NM $42 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On a Japanese-inspired tea ceremony. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/AHT Suitable for families and ages 13+ M $32 NM $35 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On australianbotanicgarden.com.au/ What-s-On bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au What-s-On

FREE GUIDED WALKS HELLO KOALA SCULPTURE TRAIL Depart Visitor Centre Australian Botanic Garden & Campbelltown City, Thu 1 Apr–Fri 30 Apr, 8am–5pm Blue Mountains Botanic Garden The Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is an award-winning public art project that is Discover the beauty and history coming to the Australian Botanic Garden for the first time. This highly engaging of the Garden on foot with one of cultural experience encompasses over 20 one-metre-high fibreglass koala our volunteer guides. Tours run sculptures designed and painted by Australian artists, in a blend of arts and culture, most days, excluding Easter. Please heritage and environmental themes. Collect your map from the Visitor Centre. call (02) 4567 3000 to check if a tour Hello Koalas was conceived and created by Arts and Health Australia. The is running on the day you plan to sculptures celebrate Australia’s most popular and iconic species, the koala, and visit. Bookings not essential, groups weave their magic through the personalities of individual koalas. are limited to 10 people. F Suitable for all ages F australianbotanicgarden.com.au/hello_koalas

36 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 DIARY

TALKS EXPERIENCES

HELPING HANDS Discover the work that goes into maintaining the Gardens and learn from our expert horticultural staff. Activities may include guided assistance in pruning, shaping, and improving plants that grow in the Gardens, and other gardening jobs. Wear sturdy boots and bring a hat, gloves, sunscreen and water. Please note that a parking pass may be purchased on the day. Members Only F BF i Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Education Centre, Wed 3 Mar, THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DELICIOUS 7 April & 5 May, 8.30am–12noon Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden, Thu 29 April, 10am–12pm Australian Botanic Garden Explore the fascinating nature of fungi with Dr Edward Liew, Manager Plant Mount Annan Pathology and Senior Research Scientist at the Royal Botanic Garden. Fungi Meet at the main car park, exist in a wide range of environments and come in a fascinating, often enchanting, Wed 10 March, 14 April & 12 May, range of colours, shapes and sizes. But one thing they have in common is that, 8.30am–12noon unlike most plants, they don’t produce their own food. How and where they Royal Botanic Garden Sydney source their food often dictates whether we regard them as the good or bad Foundation & Friends Terrace, guys. The session will include a walk through the Garden with our expert guides. Thu 18 March, 15 April & 20 May, Suitable for ages 18+ M $30 NM $35 R rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On 8.45am–12noon. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/What-s-On

ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

AUTUMN GARDEN FUN Australian Botanic Garden: 8–10 April Royal Botanic Garden: 11–15 April Blue Mountains Botanic Garden: 15–17 April SEEDLINGS NATURE SCHOOL Looking for some creative and active Royal Botanic Garden (Nature Classroom in front of Farm Cove Eatery) fun in nature to keep the kids happy Every Thu in Mar & every Thu from 29 April–17 June inclusive, 10am–12noon during the school holidays? From Australian Botanic Garden (Bowden Centre) outdoor theatre shows to sunset Every Wed until 24 March & from 28 April–16 June, 9.30am–11.30am spotlight tours, First Nations art Bring your little one along to explore, grow and develop in nature. workshops, rainforest-in-a-jar Each week’s program is a combination of nature-based activities, games gardening and science fun – there’s and stories, combined with supervised free-play time in the Garden. something for every curious child! Suitable for children aged 2.5–5 years and their carers Paid and free activities MC NM Online $18, drop-in $23 rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/seedlings rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/holidays australianbotanicgarden.com.au/What-s-On/Seedlings-Nature-School

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 37 TRAVEL EXPLORE AUSTRALIA

FOUNDATION & FRIENDS’ POPULAR TOURS PROGRAM IS BACK AND – WITH INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL CURRENTLY OFF THE TABLE – THE FOCUS IS ON EXPLORING SOME OF AUSTRALIA’S SPECTACULAR REGIONS

Members can book the tours with confidence for a number of reasons, including a flexible cancellations policy and the introduction of a range of WILDFLOWERS OF COVID-safety measures such as extra cleaning and hygiene protocols. The WESTERN AUSTRALIA tours also venture to remote areas, which means social distancing comes 22 August – 5 September 2021 naturally, and the guided group sizes are limited to a maximum of 16 people. Grade: Introductory to Moderate* For more information or to book please contact Foundation and Friends Activities: guided walks, swimming, of the Botanic Gardens at [email protected]. 4WD-ing (air-conditioned coach) Accommodation: motels and resorts (14 nights) An exclusive 15-day Foundation & Friends’ tour on which Dr Peter Weston will lead members to the home of the Queen of Sheba orchid Thelymitra pulcherrima at Mount Lesueur, enroute from Perth to the great wilderness treasure of Shark Bay (some 800km north). This region includes the Northern Sandplains, an area of exceptional botanical diversity and the habitat of some of Australia’s most spectacular native plants. Expect to encounter black kangaroo paw (Macropidia fuliginosa), the wreath lechenaultia, the scarlet featherflower, the huge blossoms and gumnuts of the mottlecah, and massed displays of pink everlasting Red domes of the Bungle Bungles daisies, to name just a few of the hundreds of species that will be WALKING IN THE KIMBERLEY blooming. The tour will also take 30 April–14 May 2021 in the limestone pinnacles of Grade: Introductory to Moderate* Nambung National Park, Murchison Activities: guided walks, swimming, 4WD-ing (in an air-conditioned coach) River gorge, the stromatolites of Accommodation: luxury camping (12 nights), hotel (two nights) Hamelin Pool and the red cliffs Considered one of the world’s last wilderness frontiers, the Kimberley, in of Francois Peron National Park. Australia’s north-western corner, is home to prolific wildlife, majestic canyons, Price: $6,670 pp twin share beautiful freshwater swimming holes and vast outback stations. This 15-day (land content only) tour includes the Gibb River Road gorges, El Questro Wilderness Park Escort: Dr Peter Weston is a former and glorious sunsets from Purnululu (the Bungle Bungles). The walks Senior Principal Research Scientist are relatively short and punctuated by plenty of opportunities to relax. with the National Herbarium of Price: $5,490 pp twin share (land content only) New South Wales. In late 2019 Escort: Sandy Pratten has run her own landscape design business for Peter escorted a trip to the more than 30 years and guides tours at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. south-west of Western Australia She is an experienced escort having led trips to India, Sri Lanka, China, and this 2021 journey north of Perth Mexico, Myanmar, Cuba, Kakadu and Morocco for Foundation & Friends. is Part 2 of an incredible journey.

*These adventures are not suitable for people with limited mobility. They are designed for participants with a reasonable level of fitness and competent swimming ability. Some days may be quite active and involve steep walks. Prepare with some regular moderate exercise.

38 THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 BOOKS ONE FOR THE KIDS

in love with the natural world and act to protect our trees – our best allies in fighting climate change – with Foundation and Friends of the a combination of facts and feeling. Botanic Gardens Ltd, Cottage 6, Meet some of the scientists, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney 2000 explorers and pioneers who helped Phone: (02) 9231 8182 uncover the mysteries of the world's Chief Executive Officer: Peter Thomas [email protected] oldest living things, including young rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/foundationandfriends Australian Tony Rinaudo whose work Office hours: Mon–Thu, 9am–3pm in Africa, has seen more than 200 facebook.com/FoundationandFriends million trees regrown from stumps, instagram.com/FoundationandFriends improving soil quality and doubling the yields of farmers in communities EDITORIAL regularly devastated by famine. Editor: David Carroll Explore tree wisdom from different Designer: Lauren Sutherland cultures and some famous and fascinating Coordinator: Helen Goodall tree species, brought to life in a vibrant Arts writer: Sue Wannan combination of illustrations and text. Scientific advisers:Dr Marco Duretto, Dr Brett Summerell and John Siemon We have three copies to give away. Regular contributors: Dr Brett Summerell, Email [email protected]. HAVE YOUR SAY AND WIN Margaret Hanks, David Laughlin, Share your experiences of Foundation gov.au or write to Letters, Foundation Ryan Newett and John Siemon & Friends events, the Gardens, or this & Friends, Cottage 6, Mrs Macquaries magazine for your chance to win Tree Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 by 23 April. Beings by Raymond Huber and Sandra Congratulations to Sue Meares and Severgnini, with a foreword by renowned Julie Keegan, who have both won primatologist and anthropologist a copy of The Garden State – Inside Dr Jane Goodall. Victoria’s Private Gardens by Richard Printer: Bright Print Group Targeting children aged seven–12 Allen, with photography by Kimbal Print Post approved: PP 100004091 years, Tree Beings is designed to Baker, which was featured in our ISSN 1324 - 8219 Printed in Australia on paper made from inspire young family members to fall summer 2020–21 issue. FSC-certified and other controlled materials.

SHOP ONLINE FSC® helps take care of the forests, and the people and wildlife that call them home.

Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens supports the important work and programs across your Botanic Gardens – the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah. Our mission is to grow a strong, supportive community to advocate and raise funds for our Botanic Gardens and their vital horticultural, scientific, education and conservation work.

Join our vibrant community of members today by phoning (02) 9231-8182 or visiting BOTANIC GARDENS GALLERY rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Join-Support/Foundation- and-Friends-of-the-Botanic-Gardens Botanic Gardens Gallery items are seasonally updated to ensure we continue to offer exceptional, high-quality artworks from talented and trusted artists. Our hand-picked range includes a selection of seasonal offerings – from cards and candles, to original artworks, prints, sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and so much more. botanicgardensgallery.com.au

THE GARDENS AUTUMN 2021 39 An exhibition unearthing the intriguing world of Art Science in the Gardens 24 APRIL – 9 MAY Open 10am–4pm Lion Gate Lodge, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/botanica All artworks for sale

Mycelium #1 by Jo Victoria