A striking patch of native Garland lilies has been found flowering on a Travelling Stock Reserve north of Deniliquin, discovered by a NSW Government Murray Local Land Services staff member during routine work in the area.

The lilies, known scientifically as Calostemma purpureum and also referred to as Wilcannia lilies, are a native species known to respond to summer and autumn rainfall, emerging and blooming when seasonal conditions are right.

Murray Local Land Services said the discovery was a reminder of how resilient and responsive native plant species could be to changing conditions.

The find also drew attention to the broader ecological value of Travelling Stock Reserves, which support native biodiversity alongside their role as grazing corridors for livestock.

Residents across the region are encouraged to keep an eye out for native species following recent rainfall, with Local Land Services noting that conditions can produce unexpected blooms in reserve areas.

This article appeared on Back Country Bulletin on 26 April 2026.