Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei|Common Tussock-grass

Cardinia indigenous plant guide

Description

Large, coarse densely tufted perennial. Flowering stems rounded, erect.

Size (W x H)

0.3-0.8cm high, stems to 1.3m high

Leaves

Rough, folded, if inrolled then loosely, green to greyish-green leaves, to 80cm x 3.5mm, tips sometimes ending in a prickly point. Sheath pale.

Flowers

Open pyramidal flowerhead, to 25cm x 15cm, 3-5-flowered spikelets; lower bracts 3-veined, lower floral bract very narrow, 5-veined, hairy on lower part of keel and outer veins only, webby basal hairs.

Flower colour

Green or purplish

Flower time

October to February

Growing conditions

Moist alluvial soils along watercourses and on flats. Frost tolerant. Full sun, semi shade.

Commonly used for

A vigorous and tolerant grass that is commonly used in landscaping. Adds vertical interest. Plant in drifts. Dead leaves can be removed using a soft rake.

Available at indigenous nursery

Attracts birds

Attracts butterflies

Attracts frogs

Photo gallery

Acknowledgement

Thank you to Shire of Yarra Ranges for assistance in compiling this directory