One of best places to see autumn magic

Top plants putting on an autumn show 

As the leaves begin their vibrant journey towards the ground, here's a quick guide on where to see the best autumn colours at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah (Botanic Garden). 

Between March and May, the Botanic Garden becomes ablaze with rich, golden hues as hundreds of deciduous species start to shed their foliage. The exact timing of autumn leaf fall is hard to predict as its contingent on both day length and cooling temperatures. This year, it’s likely the crunch of leaves underfoot won’t be felt until mid to late autumn (April - May). 

Dawn Redwoods (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)  

Just like the famous Wollemi Pine, Dawn Redwoods are like living dinosaurs, dating back millions of years in the fossil records. This fast-growing and endangered species is the only deciduous conifer at the Botanic Garden with its soft, feathery foliage turning a bold shade of bronze. The trees can be found in the Formal Garden, Residence Garden, and Woodlands.

Ginkgo biloba  

Ginkgos are one of the oldest living tree species and during autumn their fan-shaped leaves transcend into a beautiful buttery yellow. They can be spotted all throughout the Botanic Garden but have prime positions in the Formal Garden and Residence Garden. 

Pourthiaea villosa  

Located in the Brunette Meadow, the dark green leaves on these deciduous shrubs ignite into a kaleidoscope of autumn colours. From salmon pinks to rusty reds and golden oranges, each small shrub goes a slightly different shade, making for a spectacular sight that almost glows in the afternoon light.  

Lindera obtusiloba  

Native to parts of China, Japan, and Korea, the leaves on this small shrub look like little dinosaur footprints that will soon turn a mellow yellow before covering the Explorer’s Walk. 

Learn more

Horticulturalists across Botanic Garden of Sydney’s three sites have already seen leaves changing colour for some weeks now. Read more about how climate change is impacting autumn colours featuring Supervisor of Natural Areas and Arboriculture at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah, Ian Allan. 

Plan your visit to the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah and be sure to check out Tomah Cafe, open daily from 9.30am to 3pm.