The Galston District Garden Club has concluded its final meeting of the year, closing a busy and productive season and already planning for 2026.
The club will reconvene on 11 February at 7.30 pm in the Community Hall on Arcadia Road, Galston, and will return to its regular schedule of meetings on the second Wednesday of each month. Visitors and prospective members are welcome to attend, hear from guest speakers and share in the easy camaraderie that has long been a hallmark of the group, often continuing over supper at the close of the evening.
October was a highlight for the club, with eight acreage gardens opened to the public in support of charity. Among the many plants on display, one in particular drew attention: Justicia carnea, more commonly known as the Brazilian Plume Flower. This vibrant perennial shrub is prized for its bold presence in the garden, combining lush foliage with showy tubular flowers that bring a distinctly tropical feel to sheltered spaces.
With large, dark green leaves reaching up to 20 centimetres in length, Justicia carnea produces dense flower spikes in shades of pink, red, orange and purple from early summer through to autumn. The blooms are a magnet for birds and butterflies, adding movement and colour during the warmer months. Best suited to partial or complete shade, the plant thrives in bright, filtered light; direct sun can scorch its leaves. It prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. While regular watering is essential, care must be taken to avoid waterlogging.
During the growing season, a balanced fertiliser applied fortnightly will support healthy growth, while pruning helps maintain shape and encourages a bushier habit. A more challenging cut back in early spring sets the plant up for vigorous regrowth and an impressive floral display later in the year.
For gardeners seeking a reliable and eye-catching feature plant, Justicia carnea offers both beauty and versatility, rewarding good care with months of colour and dense greenery. More information about the Galston District Garden Club is available at galstongardenclub.com.au or by emailing galstongardenclub@gmail.com.
