Roraima Nursery in Lara, Victoria: What can I see in the gardens?

The Roraima Nursery in Lara, Victoria, showcases cacti and succulent plants in unusual gardens made with recycled materials.

Ordinarily, a plant nursery wouldn’t count as much of a tourist attraction. But in the Victorian town of Lara, near Avalon Airport on the Melbourne to Geelong drive, Roraima Nursery is something of an exception.

This Victorian nursery specialises in unusual and exotic plants, with a particular emphasis on drought-tolerant ones. In practice, this means lots and lots of cacti.

Where is Mount Roraima?

Formerly known as Lara Plant Farm, Roraima Nursery gets its name from Mount Roraima in South America. This mountain is on the border of Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana. Of course, you can come here if you’ve a sudden urge to buy plants while on holiday, but the real reason to visit the Roraima Nursery is the gardens.

Roraima Nursery gardens

These gardens cover more than two acres, and while the focus is on cacti and other succulents, the aim is to show how they can be combined with other plants. So the winding pathways of the gardens also pass pines, peppercorn trees and palms.

The innovative displays make used of rocks, industrial remnants and recycled materials. They are designed to be low maintenance, require little water and inspire time-pressed gardeners.

Roraima Nursery gardens opening hours and cost

The Roraima Nursery gardens are open every day from 09.00 to 16.30. Entry is by donation – a $1 or $2 coin is the encouraged amount.

If you wish to stay a little longer, then the Roraima Nursery also has an on-site café. It’s more of a coffee van really, but you can buy drinks and snacks there before eating and drinking among the Illawarra Flame Trees.

For more information, visit the nursery website.