E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens

Over 400 cultivars and species of camellia have been donated and acquired since first plantings began in 1969. The gardens are also a member of the International Camellia Society and the camellia collection is of unique value to Australian horticulture.

Camellias are in season during autumn and winter. Camellia sasanqua blooms from autumn to early winter early spring. Camellia japonica blooms from late autumn right through winter. Camellia reticulata is in bloom from mid-winter to September/October. Annuals bloom in spring, followed by roses in the summer months. Read about all the camellia species in the gardens, collated by Stephen Utick.

The E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens are on a steep, sloping site. Some sections are inaccessible or difficult to access for people with limited mobility. Access is available from the top gates to the lawn and Teahouse areas. Access is available from the lower gate to the specially-designed Senses Garden and to most of the lower sections of the garden.

Accessible toilet facilities are available next to the lower entrance, and in the teahouse next to the top gates (which includes a MLAK). With assistance along the path, another accessible toilet is available near the BBQs.

Guided tours are conducted by volunteers between June and August each year. For information contact Stephen Utick: sutick@grapevine.com.au

Camellias Australia has produced a guide on exploring the collection.

The rose garden is popular with brides who use the arch as a backdrop to their special day. During warm summer days the perfume of the roses fills the air and drifts on the breeze .

Roses love the heat and are at their best in the warm months. The first flower buds form in September with flowering peaks in December and again in February. Book the rose garden.

Many visitors to the gardens enjoy the experience of feeding animals. Duck food is available for purchase from the teahouse.

Please do not feed bread to the ducks and other birds as it:

• Is not healthy for our wildlife
• Causes buildup of bacteria in the water, which can be fatal for birds
• Attracts aggressive birds that prey on smaller species and ducklings, and upsets the natural balance of species
• Promotes destructive behaviour from native birds.

Wondering what to feed them instead? They love:

Sweet corn
Peas
Sliced grapes
Leafy greens

Please ensure you place your litter in the bins provided.

The ducks at the gardens are wild and move in and out of the gardens as they please. Food offered by humans is only supplementary to their whole diet. Their diet includes worms, caterpillars, frog eggs, invertebrates and algae from the ponds. Staff at the gardens monitor the wellbeing of animals and work with wildlife carers when an animal is unwell.

Two playgrounds are located within the grounds. One is situated near the teahouse at the top of the gardens while the other is located at the lower section near the BBQ area.

The Jade Teahouse is located near the top gates, off President Avenue and serves breakfast, lunch and Devonshire and High Teas. This teahouse is operated independently.