There is something truly special about the colour blue. It brings a sense of calm that can capture the hearts of garden lovers everywhere. In this article, we will explore 30 beautiful blue flowers for Australian gardens.
Blue blooms not only add a touch of serenity to the landscape but also serve as a striking contrast to the vibrant greens in the garden.
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What to Look for When Choosing Plants with Blue Flowers
Selecting the right blue flower plants for your Australian garden requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Climate - Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate. Australia has a diverse climate range, so select blue flowers that can thrive in your specific area.
- Soil - Check to see if the plant will grow well in the type of soil you have.
- Water - Blue flowers have varying water requirements. Make sure the plants you choose will receive enough water naturally or through irrigation.
- Sunlight - Consider the amount of sunlight in the area you are wanting to plant the blue flowers. Some blue flowers flourish in full sun, while others need partial shade.
- Size - Check to see how big the plants will get when they are fully matured. Plan enough space for each plant.
- Blooming - Different blue flowers bloom at different times of the year. Plan for a mix of early, mid, and late-blooming plants to maintain colour throughout the seasons.
- Maintenance - How much care does the plant need? Some blue flowers are low maintenance, while others demand more attention. Choose plants that align with your schedule.
- Invasive Potential - Research whether the chosen blue flower has invasive tendencies. Invasive plants can harm your native ecosystem. Choose a non-invasive species that will contribute positively to the environment.
- Wildlife Attraction - Are you trying to attract wildlife? Many blue flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Top 30 Beautiful Blue Flowers for Australian Gardens
Below, you will find a selection of 30 beautiful blue flowers suited for Australian gardens. Each of these blossoms will bring its own unique charm.
1. Blue Lechenaultia (Lechenaultia biloba)
Blue Lechenaultia is a charming and delicate flowering plant native to Western Australia. It has stunning blue flowers and a distinctive appearance. The plant features fine, needle-like foliage that forms a mound.
Blue Lechenaultia is best suited for outdoor cultivation. It prefers lots of sunlight and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It is an excellent choice for garden beds, rockeries, and container gardens
It requires a well-draining, sandy loamy soil. Once established it can tolerate drought. The plant is adapted to growing in low-nutrient soils. However, you can apply a slow-release fertiliser during the growing season.
2. Blue Thunbergia (Thunbergia grandiflora)
Blue Thunbergia is also known as Blue Trumpet Vine and Bengal Clock Vine. It is a captivating flowering plant. The flowers are large, and trumpet shaped. They range in colour from pale blue to deep violet blue. The vine-like growth allows it to climb fences, trellises, and arbours.
Blue Thunbergia is an outdoor plant. It requires ample sunlight to flourish. The plant is great for gardens where it can receive direct sunlight for the biggest part of the day. Blue Thunbergia can be used to decorate pergolas, fences, and other vertical structures.
The Blue Thunbergia prefers well-draining soil that retains some moisture. It can grow in various soil types but does best in loamy soil mixed with organic matter. Regular watering during the growing season is essential. A slow-release fertiliser can be applied during spring and summer.
3. Blue Hibiscus (Alyogyne huegelii)
Alyogyne huegelii is also known as Lilac Hibiscus and Native Hibiscus. It is a breathtaking flowering shrub with large blossoms. The blossoms can vary from shades of blue to lilac. The foliage is lush and vibrant green.
Blue Hibiscus is considered an outdoor plant. It thrives in full sun to light shade. It will produce more flowers when exposed to direct sunlight for a large portion of the day. This blue flowering plant will add a touch of tropical elegance to gardens and landscapes.
To support healthy growth, Blue Hibiscus plants prefer well-draining soil that retains some moisture. You should add organic matter to the soil during planting. During the growing season, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. A slow-release fertiliser with a higher phosphorus content is recommended.
4. Little Blue Trumpets (Brunoniella pumilio)
Little Blue Trumpets are also known as Dwarf Blue Trumpets. They are low maintenance hanging plants that are easy to grow. The sprawling plants that have long, elliptical green leaves and blue to mauve flowers.
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Little Blue Trumpets are for outdoor use. They can be grown in full sun to partial shade. Normal pruning is not required. Little Blue Trumpets grow best in water-retentive sandy soils.
Once the plants are established, they need an occasional long soaking. A slow-release fertiliser can be applied in the spring.
5. Blue Fan Flower (Scaevola aemula ‘Blue Fan’)
The Fan Flower is also known as the Aussie Crawl. It is a hardy plant that is great for making colourful hanging baskets. The plant features blue-mauve fan shaped flowers. Peak flowering times are in the spring, summer, and autumn with spotting between peak flowerings.
Fan flowers should be grown outdoors. In full sun to light shade. After peak blooming, the plant can be cut back halfway to encourage new growth. The hanging plants do not need to be deadheaded.
Fan Flowers do best in well-drained soil. Water during dry times. Fertiliser is not necessary. However, you can add a small amount in the summer.
6. Swan River Daisy (Brachyscome iberidifolia)
The Swan River Daisy features slender stems adorned with fern-like, silvery-green foliage that forms mounds. Its dainty, daisy-like flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. The Swan River Daisy grows best in bright sunlight to light partial shade. It is an excellent choice for gardens, landscapes, rockeries, and containers.
Swan River Daisies should be planted in soil that offers good drainage and is enriched with organic matter. In cases where the soil was properly prepared, additional fertilisation should not be required.
However, for less fertile soils apply a high-potassium fertiliser or one designed for flowering plants.
7. Tufted Bluebell (Wahlenbergia capillaris)
The Tufted Bluebell produces delicate bell-shaped blue flowers. The flowers hang from slender stems. The foliage varies depending on the species. The leaves are narrow and resemble blades of grass. They are lush green in colour.
Tufted Bluebells are outdoor plants. They thrive in full sun to light shade. Sunlight is very important for the plants to grow sturdy stems. The plants make a wonderful groundcover.
Tufted Bluebells prefer well-draining soils with good moisture retention. Sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic matter are recommended. Tufted Bluebells are relatively low-maintenance and do not require heavy feeding.
8. Blue Daisy Bush (Felicia amelloides)
The Blue Daisy Bush is a beautiful plant that has vivid blue flowers. The daisy-like flowers have blue petals and bright yellow centres. There can be countless blooms at any given time covering the plant. The leaves are small and soft green in colour.
The Blue Daisy Bush is an outdoor plant. It thrives in full sun. It is often used in rockeries, pots, and window boxes.
The Blue Daisy Bush prefers well-draining sandy soil. Regular watering should be done during the growing. However, be careful not to waterlog the soil. For fertiliser, a balanced, slow-release fertiliser (phosphorus-rich fertiliser), applied in the spring, can promote blooming and enhance the vibrant blue colour.
9. Purple Flag (Patersonia spp.)
Purple Flag is also known as the Native Iris or Native Flag. Its tall stems are adorned with clusters of blueish purple flowers. The leaves are green and grass-like.
The Purple Flag grows best in full sun. Ample sunlight exposure enhances the vibrancy of the blooms. Purple flag plants are eye-catching and elegant. They are great for adding a touch of colour to outdoor landscapes.
Purple Flag should be planted in sandy soil. Maintaining consistent soil moisture throughout its growing season contributes to its overall vitality.
10. Blue Pincushion Flower (Brunonia australis)
The Blue Pincushion Flower (Brunonia australis) is an eye-catching native Australian plant. It features narrow, silvery-blue foliage, tall stems, and spherical blue flower heads. The blooms resemble pincushions. These flower heads are composed of numerous small, blue flowers tightly packed together.
The Blue Pincushion Flower requires full sun to light shade. Bright sunlight is best for optimal growth and flowering. The Blue Pincushion Flower's unique blue blooms and silvery-blue foliage make it a wonderful addition to rock gardens.
The Blue Pincushion Flower will grow in sandy, loamy, sandy loam, and clay loam soil. It requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry between watering.
During the summer heat, it may require more than one watering per week. While generally low-maintenance, a balanced, slow-release fertiliser can be applied during the growing season but is not required.
11. Blue Flax Lily (Dianella spp.)
The Blue Flax Lily is also known as the Blueberry Lily and the Black Anther Flax Lily. It has slender, arching foliage and clusters of blue flowers. After the flowers have bloomed, the plants produce bright blue berries.
Blue Flax Lily is an outdoor plant. It should be placed in locations that receive full sun to partial shade. with partial shade to full sun exposure. Blue Flax Lily can grow in most soil types as long as it is well-draining. It must be kept well-watered until it is established.
Once established, it can survive on mostly rainwater. During long periods of drought, it will benefit from the occasional watering. Fertilise once in the spring using a native plant food.
12. Blue Tinsel Lily (Calectasia cyanea)
The Blue Tinsel Lily has slender, arching stems adorned with unique, feathery foliage that resembles tinsel. Its delicate blue-violet, star shaped flowers are accented by a yellow centre.
The Blue Tinsel Lily grows well in partial shade to dappled sunlight. It is well-suited for gardens with filtered light or areas that receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
The Blue Tinsel Lily should be planted in a well-draining sandy or sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilise.
13. Blue Devil (Eryngium ovinum)
Blue Devil is an endangered plant in South Australia. It makes a wonderful garden plant. Its spiky, steel-blue flower heads and silvery foliage create a striking and unique display that is dramatic.
The Blue Devil thrives in full sunlight. They are easily grown from seed. They are frost hardy and disease resistant. The plants can be planted in almost any type of soil as long as it is well-draining. It requires very little water and is drought resistant.
14. Blue Mallee Flower (Halgania cyanea)
Source: Mallee Native Plants
The Blue Mallee Flower has slender stems that are crowned with clusters of cup-shaped blue flowers. The foliage is composed of small, greyish-green leaves that provide an elegant backdrop to the blue blooms.
The Blue Mallee Flower does best in full sunlight. It is a great choice for gardens that receive an ample amount of sunlight throughout the day. The blue flowers and attractive foliage make it an eye-catching choice for focal points and borders.
The Blue Mallee Flower prefers well-draining, sandy loamy soil. Water moderately, allowing partial drying between waterings. Apply a light dose of low-phosphorus, slow-release native plant fertiliser during the growing season.
15. Australian Bluebell Creeper (Sollya heterophylla)
Australian Bluebell Creeper is also known as Sollya fusiformis. It is a vining evergreen plant with bell-shaped blue flowers. The foliage is dark, leathery green, and glossy, It creates a visually appealing focal point in gardens and outdoor settings.
The Australian Bluebell Creeper is an outdoor plant. It thrives in locations that offer full sun to partial shade. Plant the Australian Bluebell Creeper in sandy loamy soil that retains some moisture.
Consistently maintain appropriate soil moisture throughout the growing season. Fertilise yearly with an all-purpose fertiliser.
16. Blue Moon (Dampiera linearis ‘Blue Moon’)
Source: Gardening With Angus
The Blue Dampiera features captivating blue or violet-blue flowers. Its narrow diamond shaped leaves contrast with the vivid blossoms, making it a favourite among garden enthusiasts. It is a great plant for attracting pollinators.
Best suited for the outdoors. It requires plenty of direct sunlight for robust growth and flowering. It grows best in full sun to light shade. It is often used as a border plant but can also be grown in containers.
Blue Dampiera can be grown in a variety of soils such as sandy, loamy, and potting mix. The soil needs to be well-draining. Use a slow-release low phosphorus fertiliser.
17. Native Wisteria (Hardenbergia spp.)
Native wisteria is a climbing plant with large clusters of blue, purple, or white blooms. The flowers are pea-like and gracefully drape to create an elegant display. The foliage of the plants is dark green and glossy.
Native wisteria is best suited for outdoor use. It requires full sun to partial shade. Its climbing nature makes it an excellent choice for trellises and fences.
The soil should be well-draining. It can tolerate some sand or clay. Consistent soil moisture throughout its growing season is best for growth. However, it can tolerate some dry conditions. It requires little to no fertiliser.
18. Finger Flower (Cheiranthera linearis)
Source: Austraflora
Finger Flower is a ground-cover plant covered in delicate blue flowers. The unique finger-like petals of its blossoms create a distinctive appearance that will add a touch of natural charm to your garden.
Blue Finger requires a well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some full sun and short periods of drought. Consistent soil moisture throughout its growing season is vital.
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength every few weeks during the growing season.
19. Blue Gloryblower (Clerodendrum ugandense)
Clerodendrum ugandense is also known as the Blue Glorybower and Blue Butterfly Bush. It is a low-maintenance shrub that has large clusters of small two-toned blue flowers.
The plant flowers from late spring through fall. The leaves are slender, and diamond shaped. This plant is a magnet for pollinators. Suited for outdoor gardens, the Blue Glorybower thrives when exposed to full sunlight. It can tolerate some shade.
The Blue Glorybower prefers a well-draining soil that is mildly acidic. Water well until the plant is established. During the hot, dry summer days, you may need to water more frequently. Apply a controlled release fertiliser twice a year.
20. Blue Squill (Chamaescilla corymbosa)
Blue Squill is also known as blue stars. It has striking star-shaped blue and violet flowers. Its slender, grass-like leaves contrast gracefully with the dense clusters of blooms. Blue Squill requires full sun to partial shade. Full sunlight ensures optimal growth and flowering.
Blue Squill should be planted in clay, loam, or sandy soil with a neutral pH. Keep the soil moist during the growing season. Fertilising with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season promotes robust growth and vibrant flowering.
21. Chocolate Lily (Arthropodium spp.)
Chocolate Lily is also known as the Nodding Chocolate Lily. The plant produces delicate blue to purple flowers that smell like chocolate. The blooms can sometimes have a hint of vanilla and caramel too. The flowers emerge on tall slender stems.
This plant grows best outdoors but can be grown indoors in the right conditions. It will grow in full sun but prefers partial shade. It will not grow in full shade. Many people grow this blue flower because the tubulars are edible and can be added to salads or used as decorative toppings.
This plant prefers rich and loamy soil that is well-draining. It requires minimal watering once the plant is established. Fertilise once in the spring using a native fertiliser.
22. Blue Waves (Boronia heterophylla ‘Blue Waves’)
Source: Australian Seed
Blue Waves is a fragrant evergreen shrub known for its distinctive blooms. The small flowers are a beautiful blue violet colour. The plants bloom in the spring.
Blue Waves are an outdoor plant. They can grow in partial shade to full sun. The more sunlight they get, the more vibrant the blooms will be. The shrub can be planted in a garden or in a container.
To ensure healthy growth, plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Maintaining consistent soil moisture without overwatering. Apply a monthly application of phosphorus free fertilisers.
23. Blue Lace Flower (Trachymene coerulea)
The Blue Lace Flower is also known as the Rottnest Island Daisy. It has large delicate, lacy clusters of blue flowers that sit on a slender stalk. Blue Lace flowers are for outdoor areas. They flourish in locations that offer full sun exposure. These plants are fun for adding a splash of colour to gardens and landscapes.
Well-draining soil is crucial for the Blue Lace flower. You can use almost any type of soil as long as it retains some moisture while preventing waterlogging. Keeping the soil consistently moist during its growing season contributes to its overall vitality.
Fertilise with an organic fertiliser as recommended or with a water soluble fertiliser every two weeks.
24. Native Violet (Viola hederacea)
Native Violet is a ground cover plant with dainty violet flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It creates a carpet of green and blue. It makes a wonderful addition to various outdoor spaces.
Native Violet should be grown outdoors in sunny to shaded locations. Its ability to flourish in low-light conditions makes it an ideal choice for areas where direct sunlight is limited.
Well-draining soil is essential for the plants to survive. It can be planted in clay, loamy, sandy loam, clay loam, or potting mix. Feed monthly during the spring and summer with a liquid fertiliser.
25. Tall Bluebell (Wahlenbergia stricta)
Tall Bluebell is also known as the Australian Bluebell and Blue Mist. It is a flowering plant known for its stunning double blue flowers. The plant features slender stems with bell-shaped blossoms.
Tall Bluebells are outdoor plants. Tall Bluebell thrives in locations with partial shade to full sun. The plants are often used to create a delightful display of blue and green hues in gardens and natural settings.
The plants can grow in different soil conditions including sandy, clay, sandy loam, clay loan, and potting mix. The soil should be able to stay moist but not waterlogged. While fertiliser is not essential, you can apply an organic fertiliser.
26. Waxlip Orchid (Caladenia major)
Waxlip Orchid is also known as the Purple Cockatoo and the Parson-in-the-Pulpit. It is a is an enchanting orchid variety cherished for its unique and captivating appearance.
Outdoors, the Waxlip Orchid should be planted where it will get dappled sunlight and partial shade. Indoors, it should be placed within 3 feet of a window. Without the proper sunlight to shade balance, the plant will love its leaves. landscapes.
For optimal growth, plant in potting soil. The soil should have enough nutrients for it. Once the plant has doubled in size, replant in new potting soil. It requires very little water and should only get about .8 cups every 9 days.
27. Blue Isotome (Isotoma axillaris)
The Blue Isotome, is also known as the Showy Isotome and Blue Stars. This low-growing perennial is known for its delicate, star-shaped flowers that come in various shades of blue. The foliage of the Blue Isotome is dense and forms a lush mat.
The Blue Isotome thrives in outdoor settings. It prefers areas of direct sunlight and will thrive in locations with full to partial sun exposure. The Blue Isotome is an excellent choice for ground cover and edging in garden beds. It can also be grown in pots and hanging baskets.
Blue Isotomes grow best in well-draining, fertile soil that is kept damp. Fertilising the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser monthly during the growing season.
28. Blue Trumpet Vine (Thunbergia laurifolia)
The Blue Trumpet Vine is also known as the Potato Bush and Bush Clock Vine. It has a striking appearance. Its trumpet-shaped blue blossoms cascade along vines, creating a stunning visual display. The pinnate leaves are sharp toothed.
The vines are meant for outdoor use. Blue Trumpet Vines thrive in environments with full sun. Plant it anywhere you have support for it to grow. Blue Trumpets Vines require well-draining soil.
When planting the vines, use a potting mix with 60% loamy soil, 30% sand, and 10% coco peat. Planting in soil that retains moderate moisture while preventing waterlogging and supports vine development.
The vines do not require fertiliser. However, you can use an organic fertiliser once every 2 months during the growing season.
29. Giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)
Giant Bird of Paradise plants are also known as Strelitzia nicolai. It is characterised by its large, banana-like leaves that can grow up to 3 metres tall. It has striking flowers that resemble the beak of a bird. The flowers are blue and white with purple bracts. However, the plant may take several years to bloom.
Giant bird of paradise plants can be grown indoors or outdoors. It does require bright light with some partial shade. It should be protected from direct sunlight. When grown outdoors, it needs to be protected from hard frosts.
Giant bird of paradise plants prefer rich, moist soil with good drainage. It can grow in most moist soils. Fertilising should be done in mid-spring, mid-summer, and early autumn.
Here's everything you need to know to cultivate, care for and grow Strelitzia nicolai.
30. Blue Sage (Salvia azurea)
Salvia azurea is also known as Blue Sage. It has magnificent blue to violet-blue flowers. Its long, slender, diamond-shaped leaves create a striking contrast with the vibrant blossoms. The stems do tend to fall over, so the Blue Sage is best planted with other perennials that can give support.
The Salvia azurea is for outdoor gardens. It requires an abundant amount of direct sunlight. Blue Sage is adaptable and can thrive in various soil types. However, it prefers gravelly soil with good drainage.
Once established, it is drought tolerant. Blue Sage does not usually require fertiliser, but it will benefit for a periodic light feeding.
Grace Your Garden with these Beautiful Plants with Blue Flowers
Blue flowers hold a special magic that can transform Australian gardens into captivating havens. From the small dainty flowers to large, impressive blooms, these gorgeous plants will add a unique touch to outdoor spaces.
By using blue flowers in your garden, you are not only creating a beautiful landscape, but also supporting local ecosystems.
Published on September 9, 2023 by Lorri Hopkins
Last Updated on September 20, 2024
