The richness of the flora of the Sandwich Bay area is well-known, both locally and nationally. Over 800 plant species have so far been found within the Recording Area of the Observatory and Field Centre, and new species continue to be discovered. There are nearly 90 species of grass, nearly 60 species of clovers, vetches and their allies and about 15 species of orchid. Many of the plant species found here are officially recognised as being of very scarce, local or nationally-rare status. A number of them are listed in the national ‘Red List of Endangered Species’. Certain sites are of outstanding importance – for example, the small area of the White House paddock on Sandwich Bay Estate supports between 170 and 200 different plant species in an area of about one hectare, including many which are only found in this type of habitat.
Below is a full annotated list in detail.