Environmentalists and botanists in Sydney are highlighting the threat to native plants, including floral emblems like the waratah and wattle, by drawing attention to the beauty of introduced species like jacaranda and cherry blossoms, which often feature in Instagram photos and popular music. The Gibraltar Range waratah, a close relative of the state’s floral emblem, was recently added to the federal government’s list of threatened species, along with over 100 species of wattle. Efforts to protect threatened native plants are crucial, as over 35 species have become extinct since European arrival in Australia, and thousands more are at risk of extinction.
The concept of “plant blindness” refers to a phenomenon where people fail to appreciate the importance of plants to biodiversity and society, often viewing them as a mere backdrop to more noticeable animals. Botanist Dr. Chantelle Doyle believes that mass displays of introduced species like jacarandas or cherry blossoms can serve as a gateway to foster an appreciation for all plant species, including native ones. She emphasizes the need for people to notice and value the stunning array of Australian plants, which may not be as showy as introduced species, but are equally beautiful and diverse.
Inspired by the references to nature in Taylor Swift’s lyrics, Dr. Doyle conducted an experiment using Swift’s songs to help overcome plant blindness among young people. Swift’s songs from albums like Evermore and Folklore often mention plants like willows, ivy, and wisteria, invoking images of nature in her music. By drawing attention to the beauty of nature in her songs, Swift has been praised for “singing us back to nature” and helping to raise awareness of environmental issues through her music and imagery.
Botanic Gardens of Sydney director John Siemon highlights the diversity and spectacular beauty of Australia’s 24,000 native plant species, encouraging people to appreciate and seek out native plants alongside introduced ones. While exotic species like jacarandas and cherry blossoms may attract attention, he believes that native plants are equally deserving of admiration and recognition for their unique qualities. The Australian Native Plants Society also advocates for a greater appreciation of native flora, emphasizing the need to celebrate and protect the country’s unique plant diversity.
The mass displays of native paper daisies at Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan and other botanic gardens provide opportunities for people to appreciate the beauty of Australian plants up close. By creating stunning floral exhibitions, these gardens aim to showcase the diversity and splendor of native flora, countering any perception that Australian plants are boring or less captivating than exotic species. While introduced plants like jacarandas may be popular on social media, efforts are underway to promote an appreciation of native plants and educate the public about the importance of preserving Australia’s unique plant biodiversity.
With over 93% of Australia’s plants being unique to the country, there is a rich diversity of flora to explore and appreciate. Despite the appeal of exotic species like jacarandas, there is a growing movement to celebrate and protect Australia’s native plants, including waratahs, wattles, and other endemic species. By encouraging people to notice and value the beauty of native plants, environmentalists and botanists hope to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation and the need to protect threatened species from extinction.
