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Our Terms & Conditions have changed.

Please review our updated Terms & Conditions below:

It is agreed as follows:

The Customer wishes to purchase Goods from Benara for re-supply to other persons as part of the Customer’s business or for business purposes.
Benara agrees to supply Goods to the Customer upon and subject to the terms of this agreement and the Customer agrees that all Goods purchased from Benara shall be purchased pursuant to the terms of this agreement

General Conditions
Benara’s 2008 General Conditions for Supply Agreement (General Conditions) shall be incorporated into and form part of this agreement so far as they are not varied by or inconsistent with the express terms of this agreement.
The Customer and the Guarantor promise to Benara that they have read understood and agree to the General Conditions and without limitation give the authorisations and consents in relation to privacy contained therein.

Guarantee
In consideration of Benara having agreed at the request of the Guarantor to enter into this agreement with the Customer and by this deed the Guarantor does (and if more than one jointly and severally) hereby guarantee to Benara the due and punctual performance by the Customer of its obligations under this agreement on the terms of the guarantee set out in the General Conditions and grants to Benara the indemnity and security set out in the General Conditions.

Representations
The Customer and the Guarantor agree that in relation to any order or a combination of orders for the same or similar goods and/or services the Purchase Price of which exceeds $1,000, only the board of directors of Benara is authorised to make representations or give advice or engage in conduct of concerning or in any way relating thereto and then only in writing, and the Customer and the Guarantor promise to Benara that for the said orders they will not rely on any representation or conduct of any servant or agent of Benara as a representation or conduct of Benara, in deciding to purchase the said goods and/or services, and indemnify Benara as set out in the General Conditions.

Credit Card details
The Credit Card Holder hereby irrevocably authorises Benara to pay for all money owing by the Customer to Benara by charging the credit card specified or such other credit card as Credit Card Holder supplies to Benara and to pre-authorise payment up to the value of any order and warrants to Benara that the Credit Card will have sufficient credit or clear funds to pay for money that is due and payable by the Customer to Benara.

In this agreement including the recitals unless contrary to or inconsistent with the context:
Credit Card means the credit card specified in the schedule and any credit card given in addition thereto or in substitution therefor;
Credit Period means the period described in the schedule as the Credit Period or if no period is specified, 30 days, from and including the Supply Date.
Credit Card Transaction Fee means a fee calculated by multiplying the amount of a payment made under this agreement by the Credit Card by the appropriate credit card rate published on the Web Site from time to time for each brand of credit card currently 4.5% for Dinners and American Express and 1% for all other types of credit card;
credit report and credit reporting agency has the meaning given to it by the Privacy Act 1988;
Customer, you, your means the person or persons specified in the schedule as the Customer;
Customer's Associates means:
(a)      the owner, sender or receiver of the Delivered Goods;
(b)      a person having an interest in the Delivered Goods;
(c)      the Customer's principal; and
(d)      any agent, representative, employee or sub-contractor of the Customer or those persons.
Default Rate means the rate per annum published on the Web Site currently, or if no such rate is published, 15% per annum.
Delivery means:
(a)      if the Goods are collected by the Customer from the premises of Benara or inspected by the Customer prior to leaving the premises of Benara, the Goods leaving the premises of Benara, or otherwise
(b)      the Goods being delivered to the address of the Customer herein or such other address specified by the Customer from time to time;
and “Delivered” has a corresponding meaning;
Goods means the plants chattels and any services supplied or agreed to be supplied to the Customer from time to time;
Guarantor means the person or persons specified in the schedule as a guarantor and any officer or agent of a Customer who signs this agreement for that Customer;
Land means the land described in the schedule or any part thereof or any interest therein.
Purchase Price means the price charged by Benara for goods and services supplied by it from time to time as published as its premises or on the Web Site or to the Customer whether orally or in writing.
Reversal means a reversal or partial reversal of a transaction effected by Benara using a Credit Card, and (where the context permits) all money taken out of the account of Benara with, or otherwise paid by Benara to, a financial institution pursuant thereto;
schedule means the schedule to this agreement;
Supply Date means the date of Delivery or the date Goods are available to leave the premises of Benara, whichever is the earlier date;
Supply Fee means the price charged for Goods ordered by the Customer;
taxable supply, tax invoice consideration, GST and supply have the meanings given to those expressions in the A New Tax System (Goods and Goods Tax) Act 1999;
this agreement means the agreement that incorporates these general conditions;
we, us, our means Benara.
Web Site means www.benaranurseries.com or www.benara.com.au
It is a condition precedent to the formation of this agreement that Benara receives a credit report on the Customer (and if there is a Guarantor, the Guarantor) from a credit reporting agency and otherwise satisfies itself as to the credit worthiness of the Customer and the Guarantor. Until this condition is fulfilled or until Benara waives the condition by accepting an order or supplying Goods to or at the direction of the Customer, this agreement is and is to be treated by the parties as an application for credit by the Customer. The Customer and the Guarantor agree and consent to Benara obtaining a credit report on the Customer and the Guarantor from a credit reporting agency for the purpose of assessing the Customer’s application for credit. If the said condition is not satisfied or waived as aforesaid within 10 days after the execution of this agreement Benara will notify the Customer accordingly in writing and if necessary comply with section 18M of the Privacy Act 1988. If the said condition is not satisfied the Guarantor authorises and directs Benara to disclose all or any part of the credit report it obtains on the Guarantor to the Customer for the purpose of explaining why the condition has not been satisfied.
We are not obliged to accept any order made by you. If your order is accepted, the Goods the subject of that order will be Delivered ( or available for delivery as the case may be) to you within a reasonable time after acceptance but in any event not less than 7 days after the order is made unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Acceptance of an order may without limitation be communicated by Delivery.
You promise to us that:
(a)      You will inspect the Goods and raise any issue as to the quality or state of the Goods prior to or at Delivery as the case requires. If the issue cannot be resolved we may cancel the order for those Goods. If you do not inspect the Goods before they leave our premises, and there is no one at the address stipulated to inspect the Goods, the Goods shall be deemed to have been inspected and accepted by you;
(b)      Once Goods are Delivered you are taken to have accepted those Goods and will not allege that they or any of them are defective in any way or to any extent.
(c)      you will pay to us the Purchase Price for all Goods purchased by you on or before the expiration of the Credit Period;
(d)      the person named in the schedule as the owner of the Land described is you or one or more of you and that person or those persons is the legal and beneficial owner of that Land.
(e)      all information supplied by you as set out in the schedule or otherwise is true and correct.
It is the responsibility of the Customer to arrange for the Goods to be collected from our premises either by us or a third party. If we transport or arrange for the transportation of Goods on your behalf:
(a)      you promise to pay us therefore at the prevailing rates as published on the Web Site:
(b)      you promise to pay us for time taken by our agents in unloading the Goods at the rate published on the Web Site from time to time or if no such rate is published, $30 per hour for each person involved in the unloading of Goods.
(c)      you promise to pay us any packaging costs for Benara to reasonably pack your order should you wish for it to be delivered to you by a 3rd party transport provider.
Property and risk in Goods passes to you upon Delivery and it is your responsibility to insure those Goods upon Delivery.
Benara may terminate this agreement without notice.
The Purchase Price and all other taxable supplies are exclusive of GST and the recipient of the taxable supply will pay GST thereon.
In addition to the Purchase Price of Goods ordered by you, you promise to pay to us:
(a)      If any money is paid to us by credit card the Credit Card Transaction Fee payable on the date of the payment to which it relates;

(b)      all costs and expenses incurred by us or for which we become liable (including without limitation all legal court and debt collection costs and disbursements) of, concerning, arising out of or in any way relating to:

(i)            the exercise by us of our rights under this agreement;
(ii)           any default by you; and
(iii)           any enforcement of this agreement or any security given by or pursuant to this agreement (including without limitation the costs of any court action),

payable within 2 days of being notified thereof, such costs and expenses to include all costs and expenses except so far as they are of an unreasonable amount or have been unreasonably incurred so that subject to the above exceptions we will be completely indemnified by you for our said costs and expenses.
If you default in the payment of any money payable by you under or by reason of this agreement for a period of more than 2 days then whether or not any formal demand therefor has been made all money then owing that is not already due and payable shall become due and owing by you to us. If you are in default of any other provision of this agreement and the default is not capable of being remedied, or you fail to remedy the default within 2 days of being notified of that default in writing, all money then owing shall become due and owing by you to us.
If you default in the payment of any money under this agreement interest will be charged on the amount owing and unpaid from time to time at the Default Rate as from and including the due date for payment until it has been repaid. At the end of every calendar month any unpaid interest shall be capitalised for the purpose of calculating interest, namely it will be added to and increase the amount due and owing and thereafter interest shall be charged on the sum of the amount then due and owing and the unpaid interest at the said rate. Unless otherwise advised by us payments shall be applied first in payment of interest. The provisions of this paragraph are without prejudice to any of our other rights and remedies.
You, and if more than one of you, each of you, hereby charge all of your right, title and interest in and to the Land and in and to all other land which you, and if more than one of you, any of you, now own or at any time hereafter may own to secure your obligations under this agreement. If we lodge a caveat over all or any of the said land we are under no obligation to withdraw that caveat but must execute a withdrawal of that caveat presented to us by you for that purpose once you have satisfied all of your obligations under this agreement.
Further you hereby charge all Delivered Goods to secure your obligations under this agreement.

14.1     If there is a default by you under this agreement it shall be lawful for us, without any further consent or concurrence on your part, to enter into and upon the land, messuage, or tenement whereon any of the Delivered Goods is or may reasonably be supposed to be in the possession or under the control of any of you, or any Guarantor, and for that purpose to open or remove any outer or inner gate, door, fastening, or other obstruction, without liability to any action of trespass or other proceeding for so doing; but with liberty to plead the leave and license hereby given in bar to any such action or proceeding, if any such be brought or instituted, and to seize and take possession of all Delivered Goods, and to remove the same to any other place or places for safety, convenience of sale, or otherwise, or suffer them to remain in the place or places where the same may be found, and to sell and dispose thereof or any of them either together or in parcels, at such time or times, and place or places, and either by public auction or private contract, or partly by public auction and partly by private contract, to any person or persons, for such price or prices, either for cash or on credit, or partly for cash and partly on credit, and if either partly or wholly on credit, giving such time or times for payment, and taking or foregoing any security or securities for the payment of the unpaid purchase money as we may deem proper or expedient, with power for us to make any such other terms and conditions in regard to such sale or sales as we may think proper, and also to buy in all or any of the Delivered Goods at any such sale or sales by auction, and rescind or vary any contract for sale thereof, and again to resell or offer for resale the same from time to time, without being answerable or accountable for any loss, diminution in price, costs, or expenses to be occasioned by any such bringing in, rescission, variance, or actual or attempted resale.

14.2     It shall be lawful for us, upon or after any such sale as aforesaid, to make, enter into, sign, and execute all such contracts, agreements, deeds, instruments, and writings as may be necessary or expedient for the purpose of making and effectuating any such sale, and which shall be as binding and conclusive upon and against you as if you had joined therein, or assented thereto. The receipt or receipts in writing of us for all purchase money or other property which shall be paid or delivered to it under or by virtue of this bill of sale, shall be a good and sufficient discharge to all purchasers or other persons paying or delivering the same, and such purchaser or other persons shall not be required to see to the application or be answerable for the misapplication or non-application thereof, or be bound or concerned to inquire into the propriety or expediency of any such sale or resale.

14.3     We shall, out of the moneys which shall come to its hands by reason of any such sale or sales in the first place, discharge the costs and expenses incurred or sustained in or about such sale or sales, and all other costs, charges, and expenses incurred or occasioned in or about the execution of the powers and authorities contained in the bill of sale, and shall retain the balance of such moneys, or so much thereof as may be necessary, in or towards payment and satisfaction of the Secured Moneys, and shall pay to you any surplus then remaining.
We may add to vary or remove any provision of this agreement by publishing the change on the Web Site.
We will not be held liable where circumstances beyond our reasonable control prohibit us from performing our obligations under this Agreement. These include but are not limited to:
(a) an act of God, peril of the sea, accident of navigation, war, sabotage, riot, insurrection, civil commotion, national emergency (whether in fact in law), martial law, intentional damage to property or damage to property caused by the negligent act or omission of any person (including a servant or agent of a party) other than a party, fire, lightening, flood, cyclone, earthquake, landslide, storm or other adverse weather conditions, explosion, power shortage, strike or other labour difficulty (whether or not involving employees of the party concerned), epidemic, quarantine, radiation or radioactive contamination;
(b) any action or inaction of any government or governmental or other competent jurisdiction, including expropriation, restraint, prohibition, intervention, requisition, requirement, direction or embargo by legislation, regulation, decree or other legally enforceable order; and
a breakdown of plant, machinery or equipment or shortages of labour, transportation, fuel, power or plant, machinery, equipment or material.
Except as herein provided, to the fullest extent permitted by law all express and implied warranties, guarantees and conditions under statute or general law as to merchantability, description, quality, suitability or fitness for any purpose of goods or services supplied by Benara to the Customer are expressly excluded.
In this clause 'Customer' includes the Customer's Associates.

18.1     To the maximum extent permitted by law, under no circumstances will Benara be liable to the Customer for any indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages of any kind, including without limitation damages for loss of business or other profits, arising out of or referable to this agreement or any act done or omitted to be done under or by reason of this agreement, whether caused by the negligence of or breach of statutory duty by Benara or otherwise.

18.2     Notwithstanding any other clause of this agreement under no circumstances shall Benara be responsible to the Customer for any injurious act or default of Benara, nor, in any event, shall Benara be held responsible for any loss, injury or damage suffered by the Customer either in respect of:

(a)      the theft, misdelivery, delay in delivery, loss, damage or destruction, by whatever cause, of any goods being carried or stored on behalf of the Customer by Benara at any time (and regardless of whether there has been any deviation from any agreed or customary route of carriage or place of storage);
(b)      any consequential loss of profit, revenue, business, contracts or anticipated savings; or
(c)      any other indirect consequential or special loss, injury or damage of any nature;
and whether in contract, tort (including without limitation, negligence or breach of statutory duty) or otherwise.

18.3     Notwithstanding the above provisions, nothing in this Agreement is intended to limit or exclude any liability on the part of Benara and its affiliates and related entities where and to the extent that applicable law prohibits such exclusion or limitation.

18.4 The liability of Benara to the Customer for a breach of a condition or warranty implied by law and which cannot be excluded, is limited, to the extent possible, at Benara's option, to:

(a)      the supply of the goods or services again; or
(b)      the repair of the goods; or
(c)      the payment of the cost of having the goods or services supplied again or repaired.

18.5 Every exemption from liability, defence and immunity of whatsoever nature applicable to Benara or to which Benara is entitled hereunder shall also be available and shall extend to protect Benara and every one of Benara’s servants or agents acting hereunder or making or giving statements information or advice and for the purposes of this clause Benara shall be or shall be deemed to be acting as agent or trustee on behalf of and for the benefit of Benara and all persons who are or might be its servants or agents from time to time as well as on its own behalf and all such persons shall to this extent be or be deemed to be parties to this agreement.

18.6 You warrant to us that you enter into this agreement on your own account and as agent for every Customer's Associates and to indemnify Benara against all actions, suits, claims and demand whatsoever which may be brought against it and also all costs damages and expenses which Benara may in any wise pay or incur in or as a consequence of defending or settling the same or in any way relating thereto, in consequence of or by reason of or arising out of or in respect of any demand or claim brought by or on behalf of the Customer’s Associates arising out of, related to, or connected with this agreement.
If the Customer or a Guarantor relies on conduct that it has promised by this agreement they will not rely on, or a Customer’s Associate relies on any such conduct, the Customer hereby indemnifies Benara against all actions, suits, claims and demand whatsoever which may be brought against it and also all costs damages and expenses which Benara may in any wise pay or incur in or as a consequence of defending or settling the same or in any way relating thereto, in consequence of or by reason of or arising out of or in respect of that reliance including without limitation any claim made against it by any of its servants or agents whose conduct was relied upon.
No waiver or indulgence by any party to this agreement shall be binding upon that party unless in writing and in any event no waiver of one breach of any term or condition of this agreement shall operate as a continuing waiver unless so expressed nor shall it operate as a waiver of another breach of the same or any other term or condition of this agreement.
Any notice or other document or writing required to be served on any party hereto may be served by prepaid ordinary post and any such notice or other document in writing shall be deemed to be served two days after it was so posted. You nominate your address in the schedule as the address for service of notices by us on you by post. Any notice or other document or writing required to be served on you by us may be served by email at your email address herein (if any and if more than one the first mentioned email address) or at such other email address as you may have notified to us in writing from time to time as an email address for the service of notices or by fax to your facsimile number herein (if any and if more than one the first mentioned facsimile number) or to such other facsimile number as you may have notified to us in writing from time to time as your facsimile number for the service of notices. In the event of any legal proceeding in respect of this agreement being begun by us the process by which it is begun may be served by post on you at the same address and in the same manner prescribed for the service of any notice in writing by post.
Any notice or other information that Benara is entitled to serve or publish under this agreement may be served or published by displaying the notice or information on the Web Site. Publication of any notice or information in this way is deemed to effect service thereof on the Customer 7 days from but not including the date of publication.
The Customer consents to Benara sending unsolicited commercial electronic messages as defined in the Spam Act 2003 (Cth) to the Customer’s email address or mobile telephone number. In so doing Benara warrants that any such message shall clearly and accurately identify the individual or organisation who authorised the sending of the message and include accurate information about how the recipient can readily contact the individual or organisation. The Customer agrees that whilst money is owing by the Customer under this agreement Benara is not obliged to provide an unsubscribe facility in any of the said electronic messages.
Words importing the singular number or plural number shall include the plural number and the singular number respectively; and words importing the masculine or neuter genders shall include every gender. When two or more parties enter into covenants, obligations and or agreements together, those covenants, obligations and or agreements on their part contained refer to and shall bind them and any two or greater number of them jointly and each of them severally. If you are a trustee of any trust, you enter into this agreement on your own behalf and in your capacity as trustee of that trust.
This agreement shall be deemed to have been made in the State of Western Australia and the construction, validity and performance of this agreement shall be governed in all respects by the laws of that State and the Customer irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts within Perth Western Australia, waives any objection to the venue of any legal process on the basis that the process has been brought in an inconvenient forum and waives any immunity in respect of its obligations under this agreement that it may acquire from the jurisdiction of any court or any legal process for any reason including the service of notice, attachment before judgment, attachment in aid of execution or execution.
The use of the Credit Card or the supply of Goods to or at your direction is a sufficient communication by us to you that we have signed this agreement.
If there is a Reversal the parties agree that for the purposes of this agreement and determining their respective rights and obligations the Reversal was never paid. By way of example only, if there is a Reversal and the Reversal was payable to Benara, the Customer will be in breach of this agreement as from the due date for payment of the Reversal.
In consideration of Benara having agreed at the request of the Guarantor to enter into this agreement with the Customer the Guarantor does (and if more than one jointly and severally) HEREBY GUARANTEE to Benara the due and punctual performance by the Customer of its obligations under this agreement and the Guarantor HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES and declares that this Guarantee shall be a continuing guarantee for the whole of the moneys hereby secured and shall not be avoided released or affected in any way by:

(a)      any agreement or arrangement made between Benara and the Customer whether with or without the consent of the Guarantor or by any alterations or variations to the rights or obligations of either of them;
(b)      the granting of any time or other indulgence or forbearance by Benara to the Customer whether or not the granting of such further time or other indulgence imposes further liabilities on the Guarantor;
(c)      the fact of or notice of the death mental incapacity bankruptcy or liquidation of the Customer or the Guarantor or any of them;
(d)      any composition or arrangement with or release of the Customer or any composition or arrangement with or release of any one or more of the Guarantor or any other surety or person by Benara whether the consent of the Guarantor or any of them to any of the foregoing shall have been obtained or notice thereof given to him or not or any omission or delay on the part of Benara;
(e)      the fact that any money payable by the Customer is not or may cease to be or any part thereof cease to be recoverable from him or from any of the Guarantor or other person or that the Customer be discharged from all or any of Customer's obligations to pay such money or any part thereof for any reason other than that the same have been paid;
(f)       any change in membership of the Customer or any partnership or firm of which the Customer is a member or the death liquidation or bankruptcy of the Customer or any member of the Customer or the assent of Benara to any composition arrangement or scheme in respect of the Customer or the acceptance by Benara of any dividend or sum of money thereunder,

and Benara shall be at liberty to regard the Guarantor in all respects as principal debtors and shall not be obliged to take action first against the Customer.

28.2 The Guarantor further acknowledges and declares that the obligations of the Guarantor hereunder shall not merge or be deemed to have merged in any judgement obtained by Benara against the Customer and the Guarantor shall remain liable to Benara in the terms of this Guarantee notwithstanding that Benara may in the meantime obtain a judgement against the Customer.

28.3 Any payment made to Benara and later avoided by the application of any statutory provision shall be deemed not to discharge the Guarantor’s liability and in any such event the parties are to be restored to the rights which each respectively would have had if the payment had not been made.

28.4     Further in consideration of Benara having agreed to enter into this agreement with the Customer on the terms and conditions herein contained at the request of the Guarantor the Guarantor further covenants with Benara to save harmless and indemnify Benara from and against all losses damages costs and expenses which Benara may suffer as a result of Benara entering into this agreement including but without limitation all costs incurred by Benara as a result of or arising out of enforcing its rights under this agreement or any other security held by Benara in respect of the obligations of the Customer hereunder or in any way incidental to this agreement or any other such security or in defending any action, claim or demand made against it by the Customer and insofar as it may be necessary so to do in order to give full effect to this indemnity the Guarantor shall waive any rights of recourse they might otherwise have or have had against the Customer arising out of this indemnity.

28.5 In the event that the Customer is wound up and a liquidator of the Customer shall lawfully disclaim these presents at any time, no such disclaimer shall operate so as to relieve the obligations of the Guarantor to Benara pursuant to this indemnity AND IT IS EXPRESSLY AGREED THAT the provisions of this indemnity shall survive any termination of this agreement arising out of any such disclaimer.

28.6     It is expressly agreed that this indemnity shall continue notwithstanding any agreement or arrangement or variation of any agreement between Benara and the Customer and the provisions of the Guarantee hereinbefore given shall with the necessary changes apply to this indemnity.

28.7 In the event that there is more than one person or corporation constituting the Guarantor or there is any other co-surety then it is expressly agreed between each Guarantor who executes this agreement and Benara that the failure of any one or more Guarantor or any other co-surety to execute this agreement or any document as the case may be or the fact that this guarantee is not binding on any one or more Guarantor who executes the same for any reason whatsoever or that any one or more Guarantor is for any reason whatsoever discharged from their obligations hereunder shall not in any way relieve them or the others of them as the case may be from liability under this guarantee and indemnity.

28.8 In the event that the consideration specified herein is found to be past consideration the Guarantor agrees that Benara may adduce evidence of other consideration to support the Guarantee.
For the said consideration the Guarantor hereby charges their respective right, title and interest in and to the Land and all other land which they or any of them now have or at any time hereafter may have to secure their obligations under this agreement. If Benara lodges a caveat over all or any of the said real estate it is under no obligation to withdraw that caveat but must execute a withdrawal of that caveat presented to it by the Guarantor for that purpose once the Guarantor has satisfied all of its obligations under this agreement.

Privacy Content
The Customer has applied for credit from Benara and the Guarantor (if any) has applied to Benara to guarantee the obligations of the Customer to Benara. In this Privacy Consent Benara includes all companies related to Benara, you and your mean the Customer and if there is a Guarantor, both the Customer and the Guarantor, and we, our or us mean Benara. The Privacy Act (Cth) 1988 regulates the way in which personal information about customers can be used by credit providers. Certain personal information is required to enable Benara to assess your application for personal or commercial credit and/or credit worthiness and/or to become a guarantor; administer any credit facility which is subsequently provided by Benara including managing any account in connection with the credit facility, administering insurance claims, recovering any money owed to Benara, maintaining the value and protecting any assets provided as security for any obligations under the credit facility and for use in connection with the out sourcing of any of Benara's functions; notifying other credit providers of any default by you; and identifying and sending you any information about Benara’s other related products or services that may be of interest to you.
The following tells you what information might be required and how the information might be used. PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY. If you do not provide Benara with the personal information requested, Benara will be unable to assess your application for personal or commercial credit or to become a guarantor.
The types of organisations to which Benara usually discloses personal information include credit reporting agencies, government departments and authorities, insurers and underwriters, guarantors, agents, contractors, proposed assignees of Benara's assets and other third parties associated with Benara who enable or assist Benara to carry out its functions, for example, mailing houses, debt collection agencies, mercantile agents, archive companies, valuers, call centre operators, solicitors, accountants, other people who provide funding, introducers and brokers. Benara may also disclose your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes. You consent to Benara collecting your personal information and using it for the purposes outlined in this document including disclosing your personal information to the types of organisations set out above.
You authorise Benara to give a credit reporting agency certain personal information about you for the purposes of enabling Benara to obtain a credit report about you and/or to allow the credit reporting agency to create or maintain a credit information file containing information about you. The information which Benara may disclose to the credit reporting agency is limited to: your identification (including your name, sex, address and the previous two addresses, date of birth, name of employer and driver’s licence number); the fact that credit has been applied for and the amount; the fact that Benara is or may be a current credit provider to you; details of payments which become overdue for more than 60 days and for which collection action has commenced; the fact that payments are no longer overdue; details of cheques drawn by you which have been dishonoured more than once; the fact that in Benara’s opinion you have committed a serious credit infringement; and the fact that credit provided to you by Benara has been paid or discharged. You authorise Benara to obtain from: a credit reporting agency a credit report containing information about you in relation to personal or commercial credit provided to you; and a business which provides information about the commercial credit worthiness of persons information about your commercial activities or commercial credit worthiness. You authorise Benara to give to and obtain from other credit providers information about your credit worthiness, credit standing, credit history or credit capacity.
You understand that if Benara declines your credit application or application to become a guarantor due to adverse information on your personal credit file, then each applicant for the credit may be notified that the application has been declined wholly or partly on information derived from the personal credit report relating to you.
You consent to Benara providing information about you to any person who proposes to guarantee your obligations to Benara for the purpose of allowing that person to assess whether to act as your guarantor and/or indemnifier. After the guarantee is given, you consent to Benara providing information about you to the guarantor and/or indemnifier. You consent to Benara exchanging information concerning your financial affairs with any person acting on your behalf including your agent, accountant, solicitor or broker.
You authorise Benara to obtain from a credit reporting agency a credit report containing personal credit information about you to assess whether to accept you as a guarantor for the personal or commercial credit applied for by the applicant. You authorise Benara to give to or receive from another credit provider an opinion for purposes connected with your business trade or profession.
You acknowledge that Benara may exchange information with government authorities as required or authorised by law including the Australian Taxation Office.
You agree that Benara may use your personal information either alone or in conjunction with third parties for marketing purposes to tell you about other related services and products which could suit your needs. If you do not want this to happen please tell us.
You acknowledge that the above authorities and consents will continue until the credit facility provided is repaid in full and the credit facility terminated.
If you would like to know more about the personal information which we hold about you; or our personal information handling practices; or gaining access to the personal information which we hold about you; or our handling of personal information about you, please contact Benara by writing to Benara’s Privacy Officer at Benara’s address in this agreement or such other address as Benara may have notified to you in writing from time to time 2.
Benara will provide you with a copy of this information for which a fee may be payable. You should let us know if you think any information we hold about you is inaccurate so that we may correct it.

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Projects, Plant Trends and Advice

Xeriscapes have X-Factor

Derived from the Greek word ‘xeros’, meaning ‘dry’, Xeriscape literally translates to ‘dry landscape’. This practice involves landscaping or gardening in a way that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation, and is best implemented in areas under tight water restrictions or that routinely experience drought conditions.

Making every drop of water count does much more than simply conserve our water table, including making the average household more sustainable. With the current climate crisis heating up our urban areas, the need for increased greenspaces has never been more important. The average xeriscaping homeowner will also save a significant amount of both their time and money rather than what would be spent on caring for a more resource-laden garden.

So, how to do it? Creating a beautiful landscape whilst still conserving water is possible! Just think beyond towering cactus and desert plants…

First and foremost, perhaps the most obvious step is to embrace the many weird and wonderful varieties of succulents, which come in a wide array of shapes and form. They often also feature either colourful or variegated foliage and bright flowers, which will add interest to any space. Perfect in either large mass planted landscapes or courtyards and small gardens.

Another wide-spread practice when Xeriscaping is the tactic of using only native plants, an additional benefit of which is that many are relatively low maintenance, however be sure to pick those varieties that are endemic to your region. The differences between Australia’s long list of native plants are just as astonishing as the different climes in which we live. From rugged outback to glistening rainforest and everything in between, Australian flora are not always applicable in all areas.

As with any new plantings, always water well until established to ensure that the plants are sustained throughout the development of their root system.

Dry-tolerant ground covers:

Carprobrotus virescens (pig face)
Conostylis aculeata (Cottonhead)
Ficinia nodosa (Knobby Club Rush)
Hemiandra pungens (Snake Bush)
Lepidosperma gladiatum (Coast Sword Sedge) or Lepidosperma longitudinale (Pithy Sword Sedge)
Myoporum insulare prostrate (Ground Cover Boobialla)
Myoporum parvifolium alba (Creeping Boobialla)

Dry-tolerant shrubs:

Agave attenuata (Century Plant)
Aloe Erik the Red PBR, Aloe Copper Shower PBR, or Aloe Bush Baby Yellow PBR
Calothamnus quadrifidus (One Sided Bottlebrush / Common Net Brush)
Lechenaultia biloba (Blue Lechenaultia)
Olearia Beach Ball PBR (Coastal Daisy Bush)
Westringia fruticosa (Coastal Rosemary)
Westringia Grey Box^TM PBR or Westringia Aussie Box^TM PBR (Compact Coastal Rosemary)
Westringia Low Horizon^TM PBR (Coastal Rosemary)
Westringia Bulli Coastal Creep (Native Rosemary)

Dry-tolerant trees:

Aloe barberae (Aloe Tree)
Banksia ashbyi (Ashby's Banksia), Banksia integrifolia (Coast Banksia), or Banksia prionotes (Acorn Banskia)
Cycas revoluta (Japanese Sago Palm)
Dracaena draco (Dragon Tree)

Click here to explore more suitable plants for your next Xeriscaping project.

And for a finishing touch, use landscaping stones of differing sizes to create pathways, decorative designs amongst garden beds, or underneath trees.

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Xeriscapes have X-Factor

Industry news, Plant Trends, Products and Advice

Plant Pantone's 2023 Colour of the Year: Viva Magenta!

Kicking the next 12 months off in vibrant style, Pantone’s new Colour of the Year is 18-750 ‘Viva Magenta’.

Each year, the international colour powerhouse concocts a new hue that will dominate the interior and exterior styling of homes and gardens around the world. This year, the exuberant colour drew inspiration from nature and is “inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.” In other words, Viva Magenta is a statement shade that reconnects us to the forces of the natural world, making it the perfect colour palette to embrace in your next garden or landscaping design.

Viva Magenta appears in a wide variety of plant foliage and flowers. Think about placing the audacious colour where it can be easily accessed, such as in entryways and along garden paths to galvanise our spirit, making us feel joyful and help us to build our inner strength.

Here are our top 10 magenta-coloured plants:

Ground Covers

Alternanthera Little Ruby™ – the perfect mounding ground cover with a compact, spreading habit and deep burgundy foliage that makes it a stand out plant. Also looks terrific as a border, or in pots and containers.
Celosia Dracula – The unusual shape and eye-catching colour of this plume-shaped flower is great for adding drama and interest to landscapes. Planting this variety in the sun will result in darker almost purple-toned foliage and darker purple flower than if grown in the shade.
Hypoestes Splash Red – this attractive, low maintenance plant features beautifully marked foliage in shades of red with deep green markings. Performs best in part shade, therefore suits protected areas of the garden or well-lit areas indoors such as sunrooms.

Shrubs

Anigozanthos Bush Pizzazz (PBR) – produces opulent, deep magenta flowers that provide brilliant colour and contrast in gardens or landscapes. Known for its excellent flowering performance, compact height and improved disease tolerance compared to other varieties.
Celosia Dragon’s Breath™ – create wow-factor with beautifully vibrant red-green foliage and blazing red, long-lasting, feathery, plume-like flowers. This versatile plant is perfect in patio containers or mass planted into garden beds and larger landscapes.
Boronia Magenta Stars (PBR) – masses of large magenta coloured star-shaped flowers will bloom during winter and spring, making this a bold feature shrub for mixed garden beds or borders, as well as an excellent cut flower specimen for indoor decoration.
Phormium Blazing Red (PBR) – the combination of cherry-red stripes and deep auburn tones of this foliage will provide year-round colour interest in garden beds, pots or landscape mass planting where it is tolerant of Perth’s hot dry summers.
Senetti Magenta Delight (PBR) – this easy-care prolific flowering perennial produces beautiful magenta daisy-like blooms from autumn through winter to spring. Idyllic when planted into pots or mass borders for a flush of colour.

Trees

Lagerstroemia Tuscarora – possibly the best of the red-flowering cultivars in the Indian Summer® range of crepe myrtles, its vibrant coral-red blooms appear in summer. A fan-favourite at Benara, where it has been long sold as a popular street tree or feature tree for small gardens.
Malus Profusion – masses of fragrant deep pink flowers will blanket the entire tree in clusters from mid-spring, creating a sensational focal point any size garden.

Click here to search and view other magenta-coloured options in our online plant library.

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Plant Pantone's 2023 Colour of the Year: Viva Magenta!

Industry news, Plant Trends and Products

Celebrate With New Anigozanthos

Introducing exciting new Kangaroo Paw varieties, from the plant breeding experts at Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden.

The five Anigozanthos ‘Celebrations’, display unique, extraordinary flower colours that have never been seen before in Kangaroo Paws – including one blue variety, the first of its kind! The stunning new colours were discovered by Kings Park and Botanic Gardens’ Senior Plant Breeder Digby Growns after conducting more than 10 years of research and development into creating hardier and more disease resistant varieties of the native plant.

Benara Nurseries is proud to assist in bringing these new varietals to the wider domestic market.

‘Aussie Spirit’

Aussie Spirit – whose bright yellow and green tubular flowers amongst strappy green foliage embodies the Australian national colours we’ve all come to love as we cheer on our sporting heroes. This iconic hybrid would complement other native species.

‘Carnival’

Carnival – produces an abundance of beautiful tubular flowers in a striking blend of bold purple and pink, that contrast well against its soft blue-green strappy foliage. The distinct hue creates a gorgeous feature plant or potted gift.

‘Cocktail’

Cocktail – boasts vivid purple, pink and blue tubular flowers that look incredible against its cool blue strappy foliage. The stunning display looks fantastic against existing native species.

‘Fireworks’

Fireworks – delivers all the colour and wonder of a real live pyrotechnic show; with strappy, blue green foliage and bright, contrasting tubular flowers that begin as electric pink at the base and fade into a beautiful soft blue at the tips.

‘Masquerade’

Masquerade – a spectacular variety and believed to be the only blue kangaroo paw in the world! Its eye-catching teal and dark purple tubular flowers and cool blue-green strappy foliage, make for a truly attention-grabbing showpiece in any landscape.

Like other Kangaroo paws in the well-known and well loved 'Bush Gems' range, these are also relatively low maintenance and tough plants. Suitable for native, rockery and coastal gardens, where it works well as a border plant or feature plant in containers. They also make a unique and vibrant addition to cut flower arrangements. Plant in part shade in well-draining soil, and prune flower stems back to the ground after flowering. Anigozanthos are very drought hardy, however they will benefit from watering at the time of flowering.

Learn more about these and other Anigozanthos varieties in our online plant library.

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Celebrate With New Anigozanthos

Education

Benara Nurseries - Accredited Tree Grower

Established in 1963, Benara Nurseries has always been a Western Australian family-owned and managed company, with four generations actively involved in the nursery. Combined, the owners have over 200 years of experience in producing plants for the horticultural industry. Today, Benara Nurseries employ over 300 local staff, including 40 key staff that have been with the company for more than 10 years.

These years of experience and knowledge have culminated in the establishment of a main nursery in Carabooda with 220 acres under production, a secondary location in Wanneroo dedicated to the growth of seedlings and revegetation tubestock, and two separate wholesale Trademarts located north and south of the river. This combined presence means Benara Nurseries is WA’s leading plant producer, with the capacity to grow from 64 Cell to 500lt trees and service retailers, landscapers, contractors, landscape architects, local council parks and garden division, major developers, market gardeners, revegetation projects and commercial tree plantations.

In this time, Benara Nurseries has built a reputation for supplying premium quality plants in small and large volumes to strict schedules for local projects and customers Australia-wide including other production nurseries. To do so, the business has completed several accreditation programmes to ensure its success. These include the Nursery Industry Accreditation Scheme Australia’s (NIASA) ‘Setting the Standards, ‘EcoHort’, and ‘Landscape Tree Stock Specification’ – for which Benara were actively involved in the research project.

NIASA is a national scheme for production nurseries, providing a standard of professionalism. NIASA accreditation is considered the benchmark for best practice in horticulture. Areas covered under the scheme include: plant hygiene to prevent and manage pest and diseases, plant management practices for all areas of growing such as watering, root binding and fertilising.

These guidelines were developed over a period of years by respected industry representatives and researchers, and are regularly reviewed, ensuring they cover current production and environmental issues. Benara Nurseries is independently audited every year, to ensure we comply with these standards.

EcoHort is the industry-specific set of guidelines or Environmental Management System (EMS). It is a method by which a grower can demonstrate to industry, government and the community their sound environmental and natural resource stewardship.

Furthermore, Benara Nurseries is also working towards achieving the nationally recognized BioSecure HACCP certification. This is the on-farm bio-security program for production nurseries in Australia, and validates many of the best management practice strategies employed under the NIASA, while also seeking to identify internal (endemic) and external (exotic) threats to the integrity of a business’ bio-security processes and preparedness.

The BioSecure HACCP set of protocols and procedures enable a business to manage bio-security risks by establishing an effective internal quarantine process for both imported and exported plant material. It encourages industry businesses to maintain the strictest procedures possible and record the actions taken at critical control points. This sound risk management strategy ensures Benara Nurseries remains protected from biological risks.

The cumulation of these accreditations has helped to position Benara Nurseries as an approved Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) Preferred Supplier, contract growing quality plant and tree stock for councils and shires over more than 50 years.

To learn more about how long it takes to grow our trees, including how far in advance you should choose a species, click here to read our other blog.

Education

Benara Nurseries - Accredited Tree Grower

Plant Trends, Education and Products

Chamelaucium: What's New

Benara Nurseries works closely with Australian and international plant breeders in the production of new plant hybrids for the wider landscape and retail market. Chamelaucium – or Geraldton Wax – originally an endemic flowering shrub of Western Australia and a member of the myrtaceae family, is one such example. Innovative compact varieties are breathing new life into this old favourite, as it experiences renewed popularity in the wholesale cut flower market.

Western Australia alone, contains some 12,500 native plant species, however Australian flora overall is largely underdeveloped. Considerable and exciting opportunities therefore await, for new hybrid developments through controlled breeding programs. Benara Nurseries works with breeders such as Helix Australia for cut flower waxflower varieties, and the team at Kings Park and Botanic Garden led by Senior Plant Breeder Digby Growns.

New Chamelaucium varieties are bred for their attractive waxy flowers, which are aromatic and entice a variety of pollinators, and can appear from as early as June through to late November depending on the variety. Their flowers range in brilliant hues from bright white through to pinks and deep reds, and even purple. Certain cultivars are double flowering with frilly inner petals, while others still have two-toned flowers or blooms that change colour with age.

A purpose-bred variety that is destined to become a garden favourite, is the new release Chamelaucium Meghan (PBR) from the Kings Park breeding program. A real show stopper, its pink blooms are borne upon tall stems of fine green foliage, as it flowers en masse from mid-Spring and into Summer.

Already a fan favourite amongst Benara’s regular clientele is the fast-growing Chamelaucium Local Hero (PBR). Developed by Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, it creates an outstanding display from early spring when it is covered in glossy red buds. These in time, open to an abundance of mauve/pink flowers. Working with the SAS Resources Fund, the shrub aims to do so much more than beautify a garden; with $1 from the sale of each plant donated to the SAS Resources Fund, who in turn assist current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, and their families, who suffer hardship because of their service with the Special Air Service Regiment.

Similar varieties in the pink and mauve spectrum, include: Chamelaucium Cha Cha (PBR), and the large petaled flowers of Chamelaucium Dee's Delight (PBR), Chamelaucium Nina's Delight (PBR), Chamelaucium Raspberry Ripple (PBR) and Chamelaucium Sarah's Delight (PBR). Simply unrivalled in its appearance however, is the unique bi-coloured Chamelaucium My Sweet Sixteen (PBR), who's waxy funnelform flowers change colour from white to pink-red as they mature.

For those chasing a purely monochromatic display, the impact of chalk-white blooms is unsurpassed in Chamelaucium Dawn Pearl (PBR), Chamelaucium Ice Queen (PBR), and Chamelaucium Morning Delight (PBR).

Being relatively hardy and easy to grow, requiring only light pruning after flowering in order to maintain a bushy shape, Chamelauciums are equally ideal for the home garden and in public landscapes.

They are a wonderful feature shrub or screening plant, suitable in native, rockery and waterwise settings; and pair well with many other native plants such as Eremophila, Grevillea and Westringia for year-round colour. For best results, plant in a full sun position in well drained soil, although they are also tolerant of coastal conditions including light drought and frost once established.

Discover these and other Chamelaucium varieties in our online plant library.

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Chamelaucium: What's New

Education and Products

Wild for Westringia

We're proud to work with Australian plant breeders. These key partnerships include the production of native plant varieties such as Westringia, which are wild shrubs found in almost all States.

Westringia flowers can be white, mauve, pale pink, blue or purple with contrasting colour-tinged edges or small red/brown spots near the throat of each flower, and are particularly important to the overall health of a garden as they attract pollinators such as small birds, bees and butterflies. Being native plants, Westringia typically have lower water requirements once established, making them a key component for waterwise gardens and inland landscapes.

Westringia hybrids have been specifically bred to meet the need for ‘no fuss’, functional and reliable landscape plants. With the aim to be able to handle tough conditions, plant breeders have produced new varieties that can be used on roadsides, in large commercial projects and public spaces, as well as residential gardens.

While most Westringia varieties are hardy and highly versatile with multiple uses in the landscape, the ‘original’ and most popular by demand is Westringia fruticosa, also known as Coastal Rosemary. With grey to dark green foliage and small lightly scented white to pale mauve flowers, it will bloom throughout most of the year. Tolerant of coastal conditions, including sandy soils, drought and salt, it is ideal for easy-to-maintain gardens in the Perth and Peel region.

Similarly, Westringia fruticosa variegated (or Variegated Coastal Rosemary) grows well in the same environment. It offers attractive, distinctly variegated cream and green foliage and white flowers with purple spots in Spring. Perfect for those looking for colour contrast within their designs.

Westringia dampieri, also known as Shore Westringia, is a native Western Australian variety found along coastal regions from Carnarvon almost all the way to the South Australian border. A compact form with grey/green foliage and white flowers that have purple tinges, it is tolerant of coastal conditions but also grows on limestone cliffs, making it suitable in alkaline soils.

Mass planting is easily achieved with dwarf varieties such as Westringia 'WES05' Mundi (PBR). A prolific flowering variety that produces stunning white flowers on narrow-leaved grey-green foliage. Growing best in areas of full sun, Mundi is an expansive groundcover that can also be grown in pots. Westringia 'WES06' Low Horizon (PBR) is another groundcover option, with a flatter growth habit than most. Encourage an even tighter, denser form with occasional pruning as desired.

The naturally round and compact form of both Westringia 'WES08' Aussie Box (PBR) and Westringia 'WES04' Grey Box (PBR) makes them, as their names suggest, a great choice for box plantings or low borders, particularly in cottage gardens and similar designs. Grey box also offers a wonderful colour contrast, with its grey foliage against other green plants.

Those seeking a more impressive feature should opt for Westringia 'WES01' Naringa (PBR), or Native Rosemary. The best variety for screening and hedge planting, it achieves a height of 2 metres and has a naturally tidier habit than most.

Well suited to rockery and shrubbery-style gardens, Westringia Double Wonder, so named for its mixture of single and double white to pale pink flower clusters, will bloom throughout the year. Alternately, those chasing a more vivid flower colour will enjoy the masses of purple-blue blooms produced by the hybrid Westringia 'WES03' Blue Gem (PBR). A spectacular ornamental plant on its own or an impressive splash of colour against retaining walls and other hard scapes.

Discover these and other Westringia varieties in our online plant library.

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Wild for Westringia

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Plant Dreamy Wedding Arbors

As more couples choose to celebrate their nuptials out of doors, living wedding arbors are gaining popularity. Whether consisting of a decorated tree or climbing plants encouraged along a structure, they are a romantic nod to nature and can be as long lasting as the marriage they decorate.

Not only is it more eco-friendly than using plastic or short-lived cut flowers, as an added benefit, living archways can be repurposed following the ceremony. If initially planted in the right location, they will make a grand entrance to a garden beyond. Alternatively, they can be strategically planted around benches or swing seats to offer an opportunity later to relax under their canopy.

For a simple, but still elegant arbor, forgo a floral choice with Hedera helix (or English Ivy) or Hedera canariensis (or Canary Island Ivy). As hardy, evergreen climbers, their glossy green sculpturally-shaped leaves can provide a background that seamlessly blends into the surrounding environment and will not detract from your special moment.

When it comes to flowering arches however, the options are almost endless. They both look impressive and add delicious fragrance to the ceremony space. A single flower colour offers a sophisticated but elegant backdrop and bold shades can leave a powerful impression by contrasting against the white of a wedding dress. Choose either to maintain one colour throughout or mix and match multiple hues into a single archway for a festoon of colour and a backdrop that’s as unique as you.

Classic white blooms are in keeping with a traditional theme, but can also be easily adopted by modern brides who may choose a neutrally-toned palette for their big day. Such options include: Dipladenia My Fair Lady (or Brazilian Jasmine), Hardenbergia White Out PBR (or Native Wisteria), Mandevilla Classic White, Mandevilla Giant White PBR, Pandorea jasminoides Lady Di (or Bower Vine), and Trachelospermum jasminoides (or Chinese Star Jasmine).

Red is often the colour most associated with love and therefore is an obvious choice for a living wedding arbor. Choose from a wide array of tones, from the deepest burgundy through to the daintiest of pinks. We recommend: Mandevilla Classic Dark Red PBR, Mandevilla Crimson Fantasy PBR, Mandevilla Pretty Rose Pink PBR, Dipladenia Tourmaline Pink and Pandorea Springbrook Belle.

Those chasing an alternative hue may like the purple shades of Hardenbergia Happy Wanderer (or Native Wisteria) and Wisteria Amethyst Falls PBR; or even the brilliant golden tones of Pandorea Wonga Gold Sunrise.

Discover the wide variety of climbers in our online plant library.

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Plant Dreamy Wedding Arbors

Plant Trends and Products

Sculptural Plants for Tall Containers

Adding tall, potted plants in large pottery to your indoor or outdoor spaces can turn even the most an ordinary corner into something truly special. By combining the two, it creates height and variety within a surrounding landscape. Opt for uniquely shaped plants, with interesting foliage to produce a focal piece that will wow even the most discerning of visitors.

Tip: choose pots that are heavier than their greenlife counterpart to avoid toppling over, and are large enough to accommodate the plant’s growing root base.

Albizia julibrissin 'Chocolate Fountain' (Silk Tree)

The rich burgundy fern-like foliage adds a bold splash of colour when silhouetted against plain walls or fences. Its pink, silky soft pom pom-shaped flowers attract small pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The overall weeping habit of its branches softens the look of this highly ornamental and sought-after deciduous tree.

Beaucarnea recurvata (Pony Tail Palm)

Although not a true palm, its swollen base and single trunk topped with a crown of long, thin grass-like leaves make for a very distinctive feature plant. Once it is over a metre in height, small white flowers appear from the centre.

Cycas revoluta (Japanese Sago Palm)

Add an exotic feel with this lush, long living plant and its rosette of lengthy, feather-like foliage. Belonging to one of the oldest known groups of plants, it is easy to care for and great for beginners. Can be grown either indoors or outdoors.

Dracaena draco (Dragon Tree)

A wonderful specimen, this sub-tropical native is instantly recognizable and a popular choice amongst landscapers for its architectural features. Drought and cold tolerant, it can be placed almost anywhere and is a superb alternative to palm trees.

Dypsis lutescens (Golden Cane Palm)

A wonderful choice of indoor palm tree to add a touch of the tropics. Clusters of golden stems produce attractive, arching fronds, giving it a delicate appearance that works well in large rooms, office and reception areas, hallways, foyers and more.

Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)

An extremely popular and a fashionable plant choice for indoor spaces; its heavily-veined, very large violin-shaped leaves are instantly recognizable.

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant Bird of Paradise)

A large tightly-clumping evergreen native to South Africa, with broad banana-like leaves and monochromatic bird-like flowers. A lush and dramatic addition to any space, although often used as a screening plant due to its ability to reach 6m or more.

Thuja occidentalis Smaragd (Green Cedar)

A semi-dwarf evergreen conifer with a natural conical shape of dark green fan-like foliage. Low maintenance and quite striking when placed at either side of an entrance to homes and office spaces or to frame courtyards.

Xanthorrhoea preissii (Balga or Grass Tree)

Known as ‘balga’ by the Noongar people, who found multiple uses for its gum, leaves and spent flower spikes. Long, grass-like foliage stems from a thick sturdy trunk. Slow growing but extremely hardy, these are often planted as features in large gardens or public spaces.

Yucca elephantipes

Hardy and versatile, featuring tall wooden stems and crowns of long sword-shaped leaves. A lovely standout that works with almost any indoor or outdoor décor.

Zamia furfuracea (Cardboard Palm)

A distinctive and robust cycad native to eastern Mexico. Its stiff, leathery green foliage grows in broad, rounded leaflets. Low maintenance and a popular choice for indoor or shady areas.

Combine these striking plants with large landscape pots to create instant impact. Click here to explore our selection of tall containers, troughs and other planters.

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Sculptural Plants for Tall Containers

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Pot Up a Peperomia This Year

2022 has been declared as the ‘Year of the Peperomia’ – following soaring demand experienced throughout the COVID pandemic and cementing its place amongst the collections of houseplant enthusiasts around the world.

Peperomias come from the larger Piperaceae (or Pepper) family, and are a group of small, diverse perennials grown for their eye-catching and water-retaining foliage. More than a thousand species are known, with most hailing from tropical and subtropical regions across the globe, such as the rainforests of Central and South America.

Whilst their name is derived from the Greek words ‘peperi’ (meaning ‘pepper’) and ‘homoios’ (meaning ‘resembling’, as their tiny flowers resemble those of black pepper), it’s important to note these plants are not fit for human consumption.

Compact, slow growing and incredibly low maintenance, Peperomias are perfect for beginners. Though they’ve been cultivated and sold as houseplants for decades, Peperomias are more recently gaining fame for their easy-to-care-for nature.

Typically, the leaves are thick and fleshy in appearance however the foliage varies greatly amongst species, in a wide array of colours, shapes, textures and sizes. Given their natural habitat, most Peperomias will thrive if grown in coarse, well-draining soil and placed in a humid spot indoors under indirect sunlight.

Our team’s top pick is the Peperomia polybotrya (known as Coin Leaf or Raindrop Peperomia), a highly sought-after species with glossy heart shaped foliage that form on long thin stems.

The tried-and-true Peperomia obtusifolia Jade has a short but broad growth habit, with rounded, thick green leaves. Alternatively, stand out with the variegated Peperomia clusiifolia Jelly, whose fleshy emerald green and yellow leaves develop shades of pink when exposed to bright light. Stranger still, are the red wine-coloured stems and fleshy red-green leaves of Peperomia graveolens (or Ruby Glow).

The Peperomia Jade Necklace (or String of Turtles) is a true fan-favourite for its adorable string-like green foliage with markings that resemble tiny turtle shells. It’s great in hanging baskets and terrariums. Similarly, both Peperomia scandens and Peperomia scandens variegated look fantastic indoors or outdoors when trailing down from hanging pots or baskets.

Meanwhile the Peperomia argyreia is fast gaining popularity within indoor plant circles. Known as the ‘Watermelon Peperomia’, its name comes from the unique pattern on its leaves, which are alternately silver and green striped like a watermelon, although the plant is not related to the fruit in any way.

Learn more about these and other Peperomia varieties in our online plant library.

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Pot Up a Peperomia This Year

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Design a Magical Moon Garden

One of the dreamiest landscaping trends to take off in 2021 were Moon Gardens. Also known as ‘Night Gardens’, they comprise of a monochromatic assortment of white- and/or pale-coloured flowering plants and plants with white or variegated foliage, which reflect the light of the moon. The concept is to create a calm and ethereal space that not only stands out against the dark night sky but also offers a unique sensory experience. By creating one, Moon Gardens also offer their owners a whole new way to experience and enjoy the landscape long after the sun has set, including being able to entertain guests in the romantic setting that it creates.

Designing a Moon Garden begins with establishing the location. In order for it to work most effectively, keep away from artificial light polluted areas, such as near or under street lamps and backyard floodlights. In addition, choose a secluded space that is not overhung with broad trees or patios, so that the natural glow of the moon can permeate. Moon Gardens often grace the outer edges of a decked or paved area, drawing visitors out into the open air to enjoy a peaceful setting underneath the lunar rays.

Beyond just adopting a silver and white colour palette, some of the best Moon Gardens include plants that bloom at nighttime, attracting nocturnal pollinators such as bats and moths. Others still include fragrant plants which add to the garden’s fairy tale-like appeal. Be sure to also choose a variety of plants that flower at different times of the year so you can enjoy the lunar experience throughout all the seasons.

Opting for one colour – a sea of white flowers – creates a much bigger impact and has a better chance of being seen at night. Use Choisya ternata Moonshine, Gardenia Jupiter PBR and Rhaphiolepsis indica alba to create low, sweet-smelling hedges that wrap around garden paths, inviting your guests to wander in the moonlight.

Inject some sculptural form with statement plants such as Aloe Fairy Pink PBR and Agapanthus Queen Mum PBR, which make for striking features that stand out above other shrubbery.

Then fill in any leftover spaces with handy spreading groundcovers such as Convolvulus cneroum, Flower Carpet Rose White, Lantana montevidensis alba and Scaevola Bondi White.

For those tight on space, white flowering pot plants work just as well in creating a moonlit scene within a courtyard setting. Choose tightly packed, mounding plants such as Argyranthemum Super Duper PBR, Calibrachoa Bouquet White PBR, Petunia Dreams White and Vinca White. Similarly, white flowering climbers can help to maximise a tight space, such as Pandorea jasminoides Lady Di or Stephanotis floribunda.

And don’t forget to look up! Keep the white flowering theme reaching skywards, by incorporating small to medium sized trees into your garden with sizeable blooms such as Bauhinia variegata alba, Lagerstroemia indica Natchez and Magnolia Little Gem.

In addition to flowers, foliage can also reflect moonbeams. They make excellent additions to the garden as they are typically less maintenance than their flowering cousins. Select plants with white or piebald leaves such as Hypoestes Splash White and Dianella hybrid variegated. Alternatively, choose plants with softer silvery foliage that will still stand out under moonlight, such as Cotyledon Silver Waves, Maireana Silver Ghost PBR and Stachys Moonlight.

Depending on what you are trying to achieve, the ambience of your Moon Garden can also benefit from incorporating light-coloured hardscapes such as pavers or pebbles, decorative garden ornaments made of reflective materials or glass, and a gentle trickling water feature.

As a general rule of thumb, err on the side of caution when incorporating artificial light into your Moon Garden, taking a minimalist approach with tiny string lighting or a handful of low solar lights on stakes. Consider adding only what is necessary in order to navigate the space, rather than overpower the effect of soft moon beams.

Click here to search and view other white flowering or white foliage options in our online plant library.

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Design a Magical Moon Garden

Industry news, Plant Trends, Products and Advice

Go Very Peri in 2022

If you haven’t heard yet, Pantone’s Colour of the Year for the next 12 months is called ‘Very Peri’.

Each annum, the colour giant determines a new hue that will dominate the décor of homes and gardens around the world. This year, the shade is “a dynamic periwinkle blue hue with a vivifying violet red undertone [that] blends the faithfulness and consistency of blue with the energy and excitement of red.” The Pantone Colour Institute also says Very Peri’s “courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity.” In other words, embrace it in your garden design to give true personality and identity to the landscape.

There is an abundance of plants to choose from that cover the spectrum. Consider placing the on-trend colour around pools and water features or alongside seating and relaxation zones to instill a sense of calm, thoughtfulness and reflection.

Here are our top 10 peri plant picks:

Ground Covers

Damperia diversifolia – An Australian native that produces a mass of deep blue flowers from Spring to early Summer. Perfect for rockeries, hanging baskets, retaining walls and patio pots in sunny areas.

Evolvulus Blue My Mind PBR (Dwarf Morning Glory) – Loves warm weather and blooms stunning deep sky-blue flowers on silvery green foliage all Summer long.

Lobelia Midnight Moon – Witness a profusion of stunning dark violet/blue flowers above lush, bronze, low trailing foliage from Summer to Autumn. Ideal for garden beds, containers, pots, rockeries and hanging baskets in full sun to partial shade.

Patersonia occidentalis (Purple Flag, Native Iris) – A tough but attractive Australian native with beautiful blue to purple flowers in late Spring to early Summer. Works well in both garden beds and courtyard planters.

Scaevola aemula Blue Print (Fan Flower) – Its bushy, green foliage is topped with small lavender-blue fan-shaped flowers that appear during Spring and bloom throughout the warmer months. A great trailing plant that is ideal for hanging baskets or containers, as well as borders and edging retaining walls.

Shrubs

Agapanthus Blue Storm PBR (African Lily, Lily of the Nile) – An abundantly-flowering variety that consistently blooms long-lasting thick blue flower umbels or clusters, up to three weeks earlier and longer than most Agapanthus. Preferred for borders, containers, around trees or to edge pathways.

Lavender Miss Donnington – Grown for its aromatic grey-green foliage and profusion of scented mauve flower spikes in Summer. An eye-catching specimen that looks spectacular when mass planted, as a hedge or border, and patio containers.

Limonium perezii Blue (Statice) – Its clusters of mauve-purple flowers amongst the tough, leathery foliage are often utilised in floral displays and bouquets. It thrives in full to partial sun and makes a terrific border in rockeries or coastal gardens.

Nepeta Blue Moon (Catmint) – Fast-growing, eye-catching and heat tolerant, with a low spreading habit and a long blooming season. Large, dense, lavender flower spikes will delight both you and your feline friend!

Trees

Jacaranda mimosifolia – A popular choice across the globe for its long-lasting lilac-blue, tubular flowers that bloom during Spring and Summer. A fantastic feature tree with soft fern-like foliage, in sunny to partially shaded positions.

Click here to search and view other peri-coloured options in our online plant library.

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Go Very Peri in 2022

Education and Products

Grow Edible Flowers

Flowers bring joy and cheer wherever they are placed – whether that be nestled in amongst garden beds, adorning pots, cascading from hanging baskets or decorating a table top inside the home. In fact, they are so versatile, flowers are also suitable for homes that have no yard as they can be grown in tight spaces like window sills, balconies and courtyards. They make an excellent gift for a loved one and are easy enough to grow, therefore a great gardening activity for children.

Perhaps overlooked however, is the fact that many flowers are edible.

These botanical beauties can do much more than make a space look inviting. Certain flowers, leaves and/or their seeds hold nutritional value and can be readily consumed. This has long been recognized in varieties such as Lavender and Dandelion, which have been used in traditional medicines for thousands of years as natural remedies for mild afflictions. Globally, the demand for edible flowers has boomed in recent years, particularly through the catering and events industries, with television programs further promoting the knowledge and use of edible flowers in gastronomy.

While edible flowers can be purchased pre-packaged from health food or baking supply stores, they are often expensive. Grow your own instead to ensure the dinner table looks bright and beautiful all year round. Doing so will also help more than your wallet. The trend ‘Cottage Core’ is making waves for its visual, economic and environmental impacts, which sees all gardeners from the novice to the expert embracing wild, untamed beds full of flowers that attract and benefit native pollinators, as well as contributing to local biodiversity.

The components of most edible flowers are extremely delicate and don’t preserve well, so it is best to consume them right after being picked. Clean edible flowers by adding to a bowl of cold water and then placing them on paper towel to air dry. Store in a damp paper towel within an airtight container, where they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Typically, the most common way to consume flowers is through a beverage such as tea. This is often the case for edible varieties of Chamomile, Hibiscus and Lavender. Steep the flowers in hot water for an hour, then add honey or lemon to sweeten the tea naturally. Alternatively, to really wow your guests, add flowers to their favourite cocktail or freeze the flowers in ice cubes so they can be added to various drinks for extra cheer!

Edible flowers are also frequently used in a wide variety of dishes. From bringing flavour to fruit and vegetable salads, through to decorating desserts such as cakes or pastries. Flowers can also be used simply as a garnish, where it is left up to your guests if they choose to eat it. So, add some colour and flair with edible flowers on your festive dishes this holiday season!

Disclaimer: Edible flowers or foliage should be picked fresh from an area that has not been exposed to any horticultural chemicals and should be washed clean. Some flower components (such as the stamen or pollen) must also be removed prior to consumption. Flowers are often intended only as a garnish, and should not be eaten in excess. If you are unsure whether a flower or its foliage is edible, do not eat it; instead consult a Botanist or your health provider.

Click here to search and view edible flower options in our online plant library.

Education and Products

Grow Edible Flowers

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Ground Covers

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