Backyard gardens are normally the domain of tropical plants, scented flowers and perhaps a pool.

But officers in the Mossman Criminal Investigation Branch discovered some flora of an altogether different - and illegal - variety when they executed a search warrant on a Julatten property early yesterday morning.

Upon arrival at the home on Black Mountain Road, police will allege they found 42 mature cannabis plants growing in the yard.

They promptly charged a 57-year-old Julatten man with one count each of producing dangerous drugs and possessing utensils. He is expected to appear in the Mossman Magistrates Court on 12 December.