Brisbane's beautiful Jacarandas and other flowering trees

As part of Brisbane City Council’s vision for a clean and green, vibrant subtropical city, Council is committed to bringing spectacular tree colour to our city including the planting of Jacarandas (Jacaranda mimosifolia) in Bulimba, New Farm, St Lucia and surrounds.

One of the most stunning trees that dot our suburbs and bring attractive and long-lasting pale purple blooms is the Jacaranda.In most years, the Jacaranda flowers when it has lost its leaves over winter. However, by December the tree is fully leaved, providing shade during the hottest part of the year. 

The Jacaranda is an iconic tree in Brisbane and the Lord Mayor has committed to new plantings of this species in parks and streets at Bulimba, New Farm, St Lucia and surrounds.

Although Jacarandas are native to Central and South America, they have been planted in Brisbane since 1864 and have become a city favourite.  

The planting of Jacarandas in these locations is part of the wider Council program. Council will plant 13,500 trees across our city this financial year.

Where you can find Jacarandas

Most of the Jacarandas in Brisbane come from seeds from the first tree planted in the city. Some of the best places to see Jacarandas in bloom are:

  • New Farm Park
  • the University of Queensland at St Lucia
  • the William Dart Park at St Lucia
  • Dockside Walk at Kangaroo Point
  • Jacaranda Park at Yeronga.

Other types of Jacaranda

You can find white Jacarandas (Jacaranda mimosifolia alba) in Roma Street Parkland.

After stumbling across a white specimen in a suburban street, former curator Robert Dobbs installed a lovely path of these pale blooms in Roma Street Parkland.

‘White Jacaranda Avenue’ is located by the children’s playground in the Upper Parkland.

Frequently asked questions

Are Jacarandas a weed?

Jacaranda are listed as an invasive species and are therefore not planted within proximity to natural areas. Although they have the potential to become a weed in bushland situations, the Jacaranda is a suitable and sustainable tree for planting in parks and suburban areas.

Can Council plant more natives or other flowering trees?

Yes. Council is committed to planting a variety of street and park trees, including native species, to create a greener and shadier Brisbane. Find out more. 

Do bees like Jacarandas?

Jacarandas are pollinated by bees and attract bees during blooming. Bees are a crucial part of the ecosystem, helping to pollinate flowers, fruits and vegetables.

Do Jacaranda flowers contribute to hay fever?

Like every flowering tree, the flowers of the Jacaranda produce pollen. The pollen does not have a scent and only a small amount is produced. Most of the pollens that cause allergies are produced by grasses.

Are they a slip hazard after flowering?

All flowers and foliage that falls from trees tends to become slippery as it decays. Jacaranda flowers do create a stunning purple carpet as they fall.

Fortunately, in Queensland they are more frequently washed away by water from rain and storms due to our subtropical climate. Still, take care when walking through any environment where there is any element of vegetation decay.

If you are concerned about Jacaranda flowers causing a slip hazard at a particular location contact Council. Council will assess the site and organise appropriate maintenance.

Can I request a Jacaranda on my street or in my park?

Yes. However, Council takes into consideration a variety of factors when choosing the best tree for your area including the width of the street verge and proximity to natural areas.

How long will it take for the new planting to flower?

You can look forward to new Jacaranda plantings flowering from about two to four years after planting.

More information

For more information you can:

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