Aside from their ecological benefits, indigenous plants are simply wonderfully diverse and attractive: you'll discover spectacular foliage, profuse flowers, fascinating barks and a full palette of colours. You'll find indigenous plants perfect for your border, hedge, trellis, fence, rockery, water feature, lawn or favourite container. There are even some that are edible - "Indigenous Plants of the Sandbelt" by Rob Scott, Neil Blake, Jeannie Campbell, Doug Evans, and Nicholas Williams
Our Mission
Carrum Indigenous Nursery is a community-led, volunteer-run organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique flora of Victoria's Bayside area. Located in the heart of Carrum, we specialize in the cultivation of indigenous plants native to the local ecosystems. Our mission is to support biodiversity by providing sustainable and eco-friendly plant options that thrive in the region’s natural environment.
Our passionate team of volunteers works together to nurture a wide variety of native species, offering plants that are suited to local gardens, parks, and restoration projects. We aim to raise awareness about the importance of indigenous vegetation and its role in fostering healthy ecosystems, while also providing a space for the community to learn and engage in conservation efforts.
At Carrum Indigenous Nursery, we believe in the power of local action. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the right plants for your garden and learn more about the benefits of cultivating native flora.
Our passionate team of volunteers works together to nurture a wide variety of native species, offering plants that are suited to local gardens, parks, and restoration projects. We aim to raise awareness about the importance of indigenous vegetation and its role in fostering healthy ecosystems, while also providing a space for the community to learn and engage in conservation efforts.
At Carrum Indigenous Nursery, we believe in the power of local action. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the right plants for your garden and learn more about the benefits of cultivating native flora.
Our History
Carrum Indigenous Nursery was established in 1996 as part of the Carrum Residents Action Group (CRAG) to grow and promote indigenous plants in the Bayside area. After publishing the influential guide Flowers of the Carrum-Carrum, CRAG saw the need for a local nursery dedicated to native plants.
The first nursery was set up at the TAFE College in Bonbeach and was quickly recognized for its success, receiving the 1997 Proud City Award, 2000 Community Group of the Year, and acknowledgment during the 2001 International Year of Volunteers.
In 2005, the nursery moved to its current location in Learmonth Reserve, where it continues to thrive. Visitors can explore our large display garden, showcasing mature native plants and offering inspiration for creating beautiful, low-maintenance gardens at home.
The first nursery was set up at the TAFE College in Bonbeach and was quickly recognized for its success, receiving the 1997 Proud City Award, 2000 Community Group of the Year, and acknowledgment during the 2001 International Year of Volunteers.
In 2005, the nursery moved to its current location in Learmonth Reserve, where it continues to thrive. Visitors can explore our large display garden, showcasing mature native plants and offering inspiration for creating beautiful, low-maintenance gardens at home.
Anne Martin, founder of Carrum Indigenous Nursery
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We pay tribute to Anne Martin, founder and stalwart of Carrum Indigenous Nursery, who passed away on the 5th of December 2017 at the age of 80.
Anne was a committed community activist, a founding member of the Carrum Residents Action Group (CRAG) in 1989, which successfully opposed the construction of a large shed on Patterson River. CRAG’s publication, Flowers of the Carrum-Carrum, is still a key resource on the indigenous plants of Melbourne’s Sandbelt region. Alongside other volunteers, Anne helped establish the nursery, originally located in Bonbeach and now operating in Carrum with the support of Kingston City Council since 2005. The nursery provides a wide selection of locally sourced plants, perfectly adapted to thrive in local soils. She, along with Joan Doig (dec.) and long-time manager Alison Kuiter, are remembered as stalwarts of the nursery. Anne was recently honored with a life membership in recognition of her tireless dedication and leadership. |
