Themeda Australis – Kangaroo Grass

Kangaroo Grass (Themeda Australis) is a widespread, tufted perennial native to Australia, Africa, and Asia. It typically grows 1-1.5 meters tall with tussock widths reaching 0.5 meters. The narrow leaves range from 0.5 meters long and are green in summer, changing to a straw-like color in winter. The large seed head, often reddish-brown, is made up of clustered spikelets.

Uses:

• Ornamental: Kangaroo Grass is a popular choice for landscaping due to its drought tolerance, low maintenance needs, and year-round visual interest. It adds texture and movement to borders, rockeries, and native plant gardens.

• Erosion control: Its dense root system helps prevent soil erosion on slopes and banks.

• Habitat creation: It provides shelter and food for various native birds and insects, creating a diverse ecosystem in your garden.

• Livestock fodder: While not its primary use, Kangaroo Grass can be used as supplementary grazing for livestock in its non-flowering stages.

Growing and caring:

• Sun: Full sun to part shade.

• Soil: Well-drained soil. Tolerates poor and exposed soils.

• Water: Water moderately during establishment, becoming drought tolerant once established.

• Maintenance: Low maintenance; occasional pruning to maintain shape and size.

• Propagation: Seed or division.

Additional tips:

• Choose varieties suited to your local climate and soil conditions.

• Burn the foliage every 2-3 years to remove dead material and encourage new growth.

• Be mindful of its flammability during dry periods.

Further information:

• There are several cultivars of Kangaroo Grass available, offering variations in height, texture, and flowering time.
• While primarily used for ornamental purposes, it's important to remember that this is a native grass and shouldn't be invasive or aggressive in your local environment.
• It's recommended to source seeds or plants from reputable nurseries to ensure they are native and suitable for your area.