The transition to a winter campus is a chance to check out some rare warm-climate plants that are thriving against the odds in chilly Canberra.

	The Doryanthes Excelsa in the Stanner landscape almost ready to flower.
	The Willow Oak Trees shade Linneaus Way near the Forestry Department.

In the landscapes surrounding RSISE and the Stanner Building are examples of the Doryanthes Excelsa, commonly known as the Giant or Illawara Lily. This striking plant has large, strap-like leaves that grow to a height of 1.5 metres. It has a dark red flower, measuring 10 centimetres in length, resembling (from a distance) that of a Telopia. The flowers are born at the end of tall spikes that grow up to 2.5 metres in height.

While this plant is quite common within its natural environment it is rare for them to be grown in Canberra gardens because they do not tolerate frosts. “We’re proud of being able to grow this plant successfully,” Assistant Grounds Manager Jeff Albrecht said. “We’re celebrating the arrival of the first flower spike with the large flower bud expected to open at any time.”

Another unusual plant is the Quercos Phellos, or Willow Oak Tree, along Linneaus Way near the Forestry Department. The tree’s leaves resemble that of a Willow (hence its common name) and the tree is unusual among other Oak species because the leaf has an entire margin [smooth edge]. During autumn the leaves produce brilliant hues of yellow and orange so it is well worth a stroll down Linneaus way during the coming months when the trees will be in full glory.

The avenue was planted in 1970 and is now well established, creating an arched effect as the canopies of each tree have joined over the road. This species is deciduous, originating from the southeast of the USA. It was introduced to Australia in 1965 making this planting one of the first in the country.

The trees first produced viable seed during the 1980s and this group of trees has been used as a propagation source for local and interstate nurseries. The trees appear to be quite hardy and tolerant of the local conditions showing little signs of stress during recent periods of drought.

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