The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (formerly known as the National Rhododendron Garden) is located 40 km east of Melbourne on the eastern ridge of Dandenong Mountain and 500 m from the village of Olinda. The park of 20 hectares was founded in 1961 on lands granted by the state government, newly formed by the Australian Society of Rhododendron (ASR).
Today, the Garden boasts 15,000 rhododendrons, 12,000 azaleas, 3,000 camellias, 250,000 daffodils and other beautiful flowers and plants grow. The park contains a large decorative lake, sensory gardens, deep ferns and small gardens.
Of course, the main flower of the park is the fragrant rhododendron! The park collection includes about 550 of these species. These stunning beautiful shrubs are even catching up on the popularity of roses. The blossom flower range in colour from white to pink, red, yellow, and mauve. Some flowers are even multicoloured with spots, stripes, or a single blotch of a different colour in the throat of the flower. The blooming season usually runs from June to early December.
There are other flowers and plants to be explored in the Garden. August is the season of flowering yellow daffodils. The grove with cherry trees and flowering daffodils is small but very picturesque in September. It's not Japanese Fuji, no, but it has its own spring charm. Magnolias in the city have already faded, but here in the mountains, just begin blooming. There are magnolia trees with very large flowers. It's hard to believe that it happens.
Practical info
When is the best time to see rhododendrons at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden?
From June through to December, the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden showcases its blooming rhododendrons. Available colors range from white to pink, red, yellow, mauve, and multicolored flowers with spots, stripes or a single blotch of a different color. The park boasts 550 species of rhododendrons in total. During this time, azaleas, camellias, magnolias, daffodils, and other flowers are also in bloom. Show more
Where is Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden located and what's its distance from Melbourne?
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is situated just 500 meters from the Olinda Village and 40 km east of Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. The Garden is up on the eastern ridge of Dandenong Mountain, and the drive to the park's top via Mount Dandenong Tourist Road offers magnificent views of the Yarra Valley and the Great Dividing Range. Show more
What other kinds of flora and fauna can be seen in the Garden besides rhododendrons?
Aside from rhododendrons, Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is also home to 3,000 camellias, 12,000 azaleas, 250,000 daffodils, deep ferns, cherry trees, magnolias, and many other plants and flowers. Additionally, visitors can explore decorative lakes, small gardens like the Cherry Walk and Rhododendron Walk, which feature blooming plants and flowers, and a Rock Garden showcasing alpine plants, small shrubs, and herbs. The Garden also features a unique collection of ferns, including the tree fern species Dicksonia antarctica. Show more
How many rhododendron species are showcased in the Garden?
The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden boasts one of the world's most comprehensive collections of rhododendrons with about 550 species, and the flowers can be seen in individual or collective bloom, covering entire hillsides with a sea of vibrant colors. Visitors can explore the Rhododendron Walk or venture out to the various rhododendron beds, each featuring a different species, and enjoy a unique aesthetic experience. Show more
Can visitors participate in events or activities while visiting the Garden?
Visitors to Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden can choose from a variety of events, including guided walks, bird-watching, and access to picnic spots during their visit. Additionally, the Garden hosts the popular Rhododendron Festival in late August and early September when the flowers are in full bloom. The Festival offers visitors the chance to explore live music, arts and crafts, food, and a plant sale. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs, books, and plant specimens from the garden's gift shop, and volunteer in educational programs. Show more
