Why Visit LAMIACEAE
LAMIACEAE showcases plants from the mint family, known for their square stems, opposite leaves and distinctive scents. Set within Canberra’s botanical landscape, the garden highlights both familiar herbs and rare Australian species that thrive in the region’s cool-climate conditions.
What to See and Do
Follow the winding paths past dense drifts of lavender, rosemary and salvia. Look for the woolly-leafed Plectranthus and the delicate mauve flowers of Prostanthera, Australia’s native mint-bushes. Informative signs explain traditional uses by Aboriginal peoples and modern culinary applications. Benches tucked among the plantings invite quiet moments surrounded by bees and butterflies.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring brings peak lavender and salvia bloom, while autumn offers rich foliage colour and the scent of fallen leaves. Summer visitors enjoy the cooling aroma of mints, and winter reveals the structural beauty of evergreen shrubs.
How to Get There
The garden lies in the Australian Capital Territory, easily reached by car via the main roads leading to the Australian National Botanic Gardens precinct. Several ACTION bus routes stop nearby; cyclists can use the dedicated paths that connect central Canberra with the site. Ample parking is available at the main entrance area.
Best Time to Visit
Canberra’s temperate climate makes LAMIACEAE pleasant from September to May. Early morning or late afternoon visits avoid peak heat and capture the strongest fragrance release from the herbs. Allow at least ninety minutes to explore the paths and read the interpretive panels.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with the broader Australian National Botanic Gardens, the National Arboretum Canberra or a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin. The nearby National Museum of Australia provides context on the region’s natural and cultural history.
