Family:
CHENOPODIACEAE
Sclerolaena muricata
Black Roly-poly
Other Names: n/a
Regional Subspecies:
S. m. var. muricata, S. m. var. semiglabra, S. m. villosa
HABIT:
Hemispherical, sometimes short-lived perennial herb to 1.5 m high. Hairy branches. Fruits year-round.
HABITAT & SITE PREFERENCE:
Wide range of soils and vegetation types, including low-lying areas subject to occasional inundation. Often on overgrazed or overstocked land, heavier soils. Prefers 300 – 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina.
SEED COLLECTION & PROPAGATION:
Collect seed all year. Propagate from seed.
VALUES & USES:
Colonises bare soil (e.g., scalds), collects soil, and provides protection for other plants. Rarely grazed by stock, can cause problems during shearing.