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We saw the jacarandas during purple spring in Brisbane and it was amazing!
Forget the monsoons, forget the scorching sun – Brisbane’s springtime boasts a spectacle that explodes in a sea of purple!
Yes, we’re talking about jacaranda season – a time when the city transforms into a real-life Monet painting. The cascading blooms blanket the streets and parks in a breathtaking display of lavender and lilac blooms.
Between late September and November, you can bask in Brisbane’s purple spring at New Farm Park, the City Botanic Gardens, Kangaroo Point, and more!
Come for the sunshine, stay for the purple rain! Here’s our guide to help you discover the best spots to see jacarandas in Brisbane!
What are jacarandas?
Jacarandas are flowering trees native to Central and South America, but they’ve become iconic in Brisbane where they’ve been planted since 1864.
They were first planted by Walter Hill, the Brisbane City Botanic Garden’s first superintendent and Queensland’s colonial Botanist. Jacaranda trees are known for their striking purple flowers that bloom in the spring (from September to November).
This flowering tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters (66 feet) tall. The leaves are fern-like and bipinnately compound, meaning they are divided into twice-pinnate leaflets.
The flowers are typically a lavender-blue color, but they can also be white or pink. The jacaranda tree is a popular choice for landscaping in Brisbane because of its beautiful flowers and its ability to thrive in the city’s subtropical climate.
The trees are often planted in parks, streetscapes, and gardens. When the jacarandas bloom, they create a stunning spectacle of color that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Where to See Jacaranda Trees in Brisbane
Spring in Brisbane means getting to see the beautiful bursts of purple all around the city. But if you wish to get drenched in purple rain, head to these jacaranda hotspots in the Queensland capital!
New Farm Park
New Farm Park is home to one of the city’s oldest and largest displays of jacaranda trees, with over 146 trees boasting vibrant purple blooms in spring.
Enjoy a stroll under a beautiful canopy of purple flowers or enjoy a picnic under the shade and soak in the beauty.
Apart from the purple blossoms in spring, this heritage-listed riverfront park boasts a variety of attractions. You can take in the beauty of the renowned rose garden, unwind on the sprawling lawns, or marvel at the city skyline and river vistas.
Getting to New Farm Park is a breeze. It’s conveniently located just a three-stop CityCat ride away from the city center. Buses also service the area, or you can drive and take advantage of the available car parking.
City Botanic Gardens
The site of Australia’s first grown jacaranda tree (planted in 1864), the City Botanic Gardens, offers a historical and scenic view of these stunning trees. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and history as you explore the gardens.
The 49-acre heritage-listed garden has several attractions to explore and contains approximately 600 plant species. You can take a free guided walking tour if you wish to know more about its rich collection of flora.
Take a tranquil stroll amidst the lush greenery where you can explore the Bamboo Grove, Weeping Fig Avenue, and the Ornamental Ponds. The kids can also enjoy a spacious play area at the Baldwin Lawn playground.
The City Botanic Gardens is also a perfect spot for a picnic! Just pick a spot at the Royal Palms Lawn near the playground and roll out your picnic blanket.
University of Queensland St. Lucia Campus
The University of Queensland at St Lucia is another great spot to see jacarandas in bloom. The trees line the pathways and courtyards, creating a picturesque setting for a walk or a bike ride.
Imagine cycling under a vibrant purple canopy while the sunlight dapples through the lavender blossoms!
The UQ campus boasts a particularly rich jacaranda history. Over 130 jacarandas were planted here in the 1940’s by Ernest Walter Bick, and their flourishing presence continues to be a beloved feature of the university.
You can explore the Great Court, the iconic center of the campus, and see the majestic jacarandas framing the sandstone buildings.
Take a stroll along the riverfront or wander through the cloisters as the stunning display of purple blooms captivate you with every step.
The UQ jacarandas are more than just a springtime spectacle – they’re a cherished part of the university’s heritage, adding a touch of magic to the school grounds.
Kangaroo Point
Take in the stunning views of the Brisbane River while enjoying the beautiful jacaranda blossoms at Kangaroo Point. Stroll along the scenic Dockside Walk or the Riverside Promenade, where the jacaranda trees shower the pathways with their purple blooms.
But Kangaroo Point offers more than just jacarandas. You can take a ferry from the point to explore other riverside destinations, or climb the Kangaroo Point Cliffs for panoramic city views and a dose of adventure.
Foodies will delight in the area’s trendy cafes and restaurants, while history buffs can delve into maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum.
Jacaranda Park, Yeronga
This park lives up to its name, boasting a dense concentration of jacaranda trees that create a purple wonderland when in bloom. The place is perfect for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon under the beautiful purple canopy.
The park itself features a playground and shaded areas, ideal for keeping little ones entertained.
For some history tidbits, you can visit the nearby Yeronga Memorial Park, founded in 1882. The park boasts a rich history, evident in its war memorials, fig tree avenue (one of Australia’s first!), and even a heritage-listed chequerboard and croquet club.
Apart from pieces of Brisbane’s history, the park offers peaceful walks under shady eucalypts, and a dedicated off-leash dog area.
Roma Street Parkland
For a unique twist to your purple spring adventure, Roma Street Parkland offers a chance to see rare white jacaranda trees alongside the more common purple ones.
This beautifully landscaped park provides a modern backdrop to appreciate these spectacular trees.
Apart from marveling at the beautiful jacarandas, the park also boasts a variety of attractions. You can wander through its diverse themed gardens, from the Children’s Water Play Fountain to the must-see Spectacle Gardens!
You can also enjoy a nice cup of coffee and brunch at The Garden Room, a cafe located within the park. You can also opt to order a picnic hamper and take your brunch outdoors!
In addition, Roma Street Parkland is fully accessible with ramps and designated disabled parking.
Goodna
Goodna is a suburb in the city of Ipswich, just less than 30 minutes from the Brisbane CBD. You can go on a scenic jacaranda walk along George Street or relax and see the purple blooms at Evan Marginson Park.
Every year, Goodna comes alive with the vibrant colors of jacarandas at their Jacaranda Festival held at Evan Marginson Park. The site transforms into a stunning display of lilac and lavender, attracting visitors from all over.
The festivities kick off in late October with a fun-filled program that includes carnival rides, food stalls, local artists performing on stage, and classic side show alley games.
Victoria Park / Barrambin
Another beautiful park where you can enjoy Brisbane’s purple spring is Victoria Park / Barrambin. It’s one of the newest parks being developed in Brisbane’s inner-city suburbs in Herston near Kelvin Grove.
This 64-hectare park offers a unique jacaranda experience. While it may not boast the dense displays found elsewhere, Victoria Park / Barrambin integrates its existing jacaranda trees into its ongoing transformation.
This means you can enjoy the beauty of these purple blooms scattered throughout the park, adding bursts of color to the ever-evolving landscape.
Planning Your Jacaranda Visit
Brisbane transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of purple every spring when the jacaranda trees burst into bloom. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a must-do, but a little planning can ensure your jacaranda experience will truly be unforgettable!
Here are some things to know before your visit:
Timing is Key
Jacarandas typically bloom from late September to November. The peak bloom period usually lasts for a few weeks, but it can vary depending on the weather conditions.
To ensure you catch the jacarandas at their most vibrant, check online resources or consult with locals as your travel date draws near.
Choosing Your Location
Brisbane boasts numerous spots where jacarandas paint the landscape purple. New Farm Park is a classic choice, offering a scenic riverfront location with over 146 jacaranda trees creating a stunning canopy.
- For a classic experience – New Farm Park and the City Botanic Gardens offer iconic displays with historical significance.
- For picturesque walks or bike rides – The University of Queensland St. Lucia and Kangaroo Point offer charming pathways lined with jacaranda trees.
- For a family outing – Jacaranda Park in Yeronga provides a dense concentration of jacarandas, perfect for creating lasting memories.
- For a unique twist – Roma Street Parkland showcases rare white jacarandas alongside the classic purple blooms.
Check out our list above for more places to see jacarandas.
Embrace the Purple
Once you’ve chosen your location, plan your visit around the jacaranda blooms. Pack comfortable shoes for walking under the beautiful trees, a hat and sunscreen for the Australian sun, and an umbrella for occasional spring showers.
You can also bring a picnic blanket to relax and soak in the scenery. And don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerizing purple hues!
Jacaranda season is a haven for photographers, both professionals and hobbyists alike. You can go on a photo walk to the destinations we mentioned above and capture the purple explosion across Brisbane!
Accommodations
Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak bloom. Popular hotels and Airbnbs tend to fill up quickly.
Consider areas close to your chosen location for added convenience. Here are some hotels we recommend near Brisbane’s jacaranda hotspots:
- Edward Lodge, New Farm
- Royal on the Park, City Botanic Gardens
- Regatta Hotel, near University of Queensland St. Lucia Campus
- The Point Brisbane, Kangaroo Point
- Brisbane Street Studios, near Jacaranda Park Yeronga
- Hotel Grand Chancellor, near Roma Street Parkland
- Commercial Hotel Redbank, Gooodna
- Quest Kelvin Grove, near Victoria Park / Barrambi
