Follow nature’s lead this season and plant like the wild does!

Autumn might seem like a winding-down period in the garden, but in nature, it’s one of the most important growing seasons. Many indigenous plants burst into bloom, establish strong root systems, or start fresh new growth—all without extra effort from us! Instead of trying to force summer plants to keep going, why not work with the seasons and plant what thrives naturally?

Autumn’s Bloomers

Some plants wait for autumn to shine, offering fresh colour just as summer gardens begin to fade:

Plectranthus species (P. ecklonii, P. Mona Lavender, P. ciliatus, P. neochilus) – These lush plants burst into a sea of purple, blue, white and pink flowers in late summer and autumn, thriving in dappled shade.
Buddleja auriculata (Weeping Sage Bush) – A magnet for bees and butterflies, this shrub fills the garden with fragrant autumn and winter blooms.
Euryops pectinatus (Golden Daisy Bush) – These bright yellow flowers keep shining from autumn into winter, thriving with minimal care.

Tough Groundcovers That Love Autumn

While some plants slow down at this time of the year, these indigenous groundcovers thrive, adding texture and filling gaps beautifully:

Crassula multicava – A tough groundcover that sends out fresh new growth in autumn, making it a water-wise favourite.
Cotyledon orbiculata – A hardy succulent that thrives in cooler months, perfect for filling dry spots with silver-green foliage.
Oscularia deltoides (Pink Vygie) – A fast-growing succulent with eye-catching pink blooms, thriving in dry autumn gardens.

Structural Shrubs & Succulents for the Season

Autumn is the best time to plant hardy shrubs and striking succulents, giving them time to establish before summer:

Aloe arborescens ‘Limelight’ – One of the best autumn and winter-flowering aloes, loved by sunbirds and gardeners alike.
Mackaya bella (Forest Bell Bush) – This elegant shrub enjoys the cooler weather and thrives in dappled shade.
Agapanthus praecox – A garden classic, Agapanthus starts putting out fresh new leaves in autumn, ready for summer blooms.
Portulacaria afra (Spekboom) – A champion in carbon capture and drought resistance, this indigenous succulent grows rapidly in autumn.

Why Plant Like Nature?

Autumn planting = happy plants! Cooler temperatures mean less water stress, roots establish before summer heat arrives and indigenous plants thrive naturally without extra fuss. Whether you’re adding autumn colour, tough groundcovers, or bold structural plants, now is the perfect time to dig in and grow like a local!

DISCLAIMER:  The information presented on this website is intended solely as a general guide. We neither endorse specific plant varieties over others nor claim expertise in stock performance. All information is believed to be accurate, based on private inquiries and experiences, and is provided in good faith. Blackwood’s, including its employees, disclaims any responsibility for harm, loss, cost, or damage arising from the use or reliance upon any information on this website, especially if any part of the information proves to be inaccurate or incomplete. Please note that the displayed photos are not representative of current stock but are used for illustrative purposes only.