FEATURE ARTICLES
Introducing the Tasmanian Flora Entry Zone Chris Lang, Curator Tasmanian Flora, Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
The Tasmanian Native Collection and adjacent areas have undergone substantial change following long-held plans to redevelop Tasmanian flora displays through the northern region of the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (RTBG). A significant landscaping effort, which started in September 2020, has resulted in the establishment of the new Tasmanian Flora Entry Zone, known in-house as the Entry Zone. The Entry Zone was deemed a priority for redevelopment following a severe storm
Entry Zone landscape works about to commence. Credit: Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
event that struck the gardens during May 2018. Thirteen mature trees were lost during the storm, including a large Ponderosa Pine Pinus ponderosa specimen that fell across the subalpine/scree area of the Tasmanian Native Section. This resulted in the loss of a significant number of valuable specimens, including some of the largest Pencil Pines Athrotaxis spp. in cultivation. Our aim was to establish a display of Tasmanian native plants in a contemporary setting rather than trying to replicate natural bush landscapes. To help achieve this, a local landscaping contractor was employed to transform a previously uninspiring sloping site, with poorly drained heavy black clay soil, into a visually engaging landscape that supports the healthy growth of a broad range of Tasmanian native plant species with varying cultural requirements. Officially opened on 21 December 2021, the Entry Zone functions as a welcoming introductory experience for visitors as they embark upon an informative and educational journey of discovery through our Tasmanian Flora Collection. The new development is a landscape of two distinct styles – plantings, with a focus on natural habitat, transition within a relatively short distance to a contrasting formal space. Visitors make their way along a meandering gravel path through plantings reminiscent of Tasmania’s cool
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THE BOTANIC GARDENer | ISS 58 Winter 2022
