A visit to the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden (AALBG), in Port Augusta. (Established in 1993)

To the uninitiated, Australia’s arid heart might seem barren and lifeless. In fact the opposite is true.

Our arid lands are home to thousands of highly evolved plant communities that are specially adapted to thrive in an environment where temperatures are extreme and drought can last for decades. Australia’s arid zone ecosystems are fragile and complex and they are found nowhere else on earth.

We consider "Arid" to be areas of average rainfall of 300mm per year (or less).  Our plant collection is formed around this average rainfall maximum and is shown on the attached map.

The Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden (AALBG), in Port Augusta, was established in 1993, with the Garden officially opening in 1996, to research, conserve and promote the wider appreciation of Australia’s arid zone flora. Located on the shores of Upper Spencer Gulf with spectacular views to the ancient Flinders Ranges, the Garden showcases a diverse collection of arid zone habitats in a picturesque setting of more than 250 hectares. ( from their website)

Our visit was primarily to learn more about the range of plant species that thrive in this climate as well as to hone some of our skills in recognising Plant; Families, Genus and in many cases even the Species found across the 16:6 Trust.

One of the highlights is a boardwalk over sand dunes where it ends in a pavilion complete with information panels on the local flora and fauna.

The time we were here was mild and warm, however not the best season for showy spring flowers, however a few were peeking through.

If Travelling to Port Augusta or in the area don’t pass up the opportunity to visit this place and not only see the awesome and unique plant life but also the Birds in the area which are plentiful.

Their web site is at : About the Garden - AALBG

Hannah and Grant