Australian Natives Bloom in Unexpected Places

0:00From the streets of Sydney to the world, this is Sydney news today. Sturt's desert pee, South Australia's floral emblem, usually grows in arid outback conditions, but now it's blooming in greenhouses along New South. Wales is mid-North Coast. Flower farmer Paul Daly has dozens thriving at his kimchi operation, an unexpected spot amid lush bushland. Mr. Daly started growing them last year after seeing the flower just once before, drawn to their unique beauty that few people experience up close. He mixes mainstream crops with these risky exotics, treating it like a fun gamble since he saves most for seeds amid huge interest. Meanwhile, on the central coast, Jonathan Lidbetter has cultivated them for eight years at East Coast wildflowers, refining techniques to make them, market ready. His blooms hit Sydney flower markets, tapping into demand for delicate seasonal natives, boosted by the pandemic's push for local low mileage. Flowers. Flores keep returning for the novelty, unlike year-round imports,

1:02fueling a broader trend toward Australian natives as symbols of homegrown pride. Industry leaders note Aussies want to support local growers, driving up popularity, but not all natives are Australian, grown anymore. Kangaroo Paul and Eucalyptus often come from overseas. With only about 50% of flowers now produced here, compared to 90% 25 years ago, the industry pushes for mandatory, country of origin labels to inform buyers. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor, See the episode description. A pillow that plays your sound quietly, comfortably, effortlessly. Built for nighttime listening, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.