Why the world's most dedicated plant collectors gather in a North-West Sydney paddock
In short: Since 2005, the Collector’s Plant Fair has evolved from a muddy paddock gathering into a massive horticultural event. It draws Australia’s most passionate growers and enthusiasts, offering everything from alien-like stapelias that smell of fish to rare alocasias. Discover the secrets to keeping your own rare botanical specimens thriving.
The Collector’s Plant Fair began as a modest gathering on private property with only 20 stalls. Over nearly two decades, it has expanded into a significant event featuring 200 stalls, attracting a new generation of growers and collectors. Specialist nursery owners, such as David Fripp, have been involved since the inception, showcasing rare specimens like the prostrate cane begonia ‘Fabulous Tom’ and the gesneriad Nematanthus wiehleri. The fair serves as a vital hub for enthusiasts to share unbridled passion for unique flora.
For those interested in the bizarre, the fair highlights plants like stapelias, which feature furry petals and a scent reminiscent of dead fish to attract pollinators. Growers like Keith Tollis have spent 20 years cultivating these succulents. Conversely, delicate orchids like the Bulbophyllum frostii hybrids—often called Dutch shoes—require a different approach. Expert Hans Schaible warns that many owners inadvertently kill their orchids through excessive care, noting that constant watering and fussing are detrimental. Instead, he recommends keeping them moist, not wet, in partial shade.
Indoor foliage remains a dominant trend, with wholesalers like Jeremy Critchley offering rare 'unicorn' plants before they reach retail shelves. Popular varieties include the Alocasia ‘Red Secret’ and the striking Alocasia azlanii. Critchley suggests that successful indoor gardening relies on mimicking natural wet and dry cycles. A practical nursery trick involves lifting the pot: by learning the difference between a heavy, hydrated pot and a light, dry one, owners can determine exactly when their plants need water. Other staples like rhipsalis, which thrive in morning sun with free-draining soil, round out the diverse offerings found at the fair, proving that whether you prefer smooth, hairy, or trailing textures, there is a specific method to master the care of every unique specimen.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Join us as we visit a collector's plant fair | Discovery | Gardening Australia
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