Australian plants are definitely different. There's one rhododendron, a few geraniums and hibiscus and many orchids. Beyond that, everything is strange. Outside the shrinking rain forests, the prevalent look is lean, dry, gray-green and russet, a reflection of scorching summers and sandy soils that hold little moisture. But that look encompasses an astonishing range of subtle colors and textures.
Conifers are rare, but there are non-conifers that look just like pines.
Variation is an Australian specialty. Both can be prostrate, tree-like or somewhere in between, with leaves resembling rosemary, holly or oak. In spite of this rich heritage, most local suburban gardens could be just about anywhere with a mild climate. But people do love birds and other small wildlife, and there is a noticeable interest in planting natives for their sake. Native plants are much easier to find in Canberra than they are in Eugene.