Wildflower Society of WA exhibition promotes scientific education in Albany

The Wildflower Society of WA is hosting a four-day exhibition in Albany in a bid to encourage scientific identification among the community.

Spring has sprung and soon the Great Southern will be covered in a blanket of vibrant colours or floral arrangements, but the Albany branch of the Wildflower Society is making it their mission to improve knowledge of the flowers that grow in the region.

The workshop started on Wednesday and is operating out of St John’s Hall, encouraging flower enthusiasts to grow their ability to identify flowers not only by their appearance but by their scientific name as well.

Albany Wildflower Society’s Sandra Swain said improving the community’s scientific understanding of wildflowers was the group’s focus.

“The Great Southern is gorgeous this time of year and it’s important to promote wildflower appreciation, knowledge and conservation,” she said.

“We have set it up so if someone does want to really learn about the scientific background of a plant then this provides that opportunity.”

Up to 500 native flora to the Albany area will be on display throughout the workshop with each eye-catching piece displaying their scientific identification.

It costs adults $5.50 to enter, children enter free, and all proceeds will be injected into the Wildflower Society.

“The herbarium is where local records are kept of specimens found in the region,” Ms Swain said.

“It’s great to catalogue and document the flora we have in this area and important to highlight the area’s beauty.”

The event will be open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays but finish at 1pm on Saturday.

Devonshire teas and lunch will be provided by the Church Ladies Guild.