Family:

Poaceae

Microlaena stipoides

Weeping Grass

Other Names:

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Regional:

Predominantly east of the Olympic Highway.

Habitat & Site Selection:

Moist, well-drained soils moderately to highly fertile, in semi-shaded areas. Common along creeklines. Tolerates drought and frost.

Habit:

Tufted slender perennial grass to 70 cm high. Green all year, with rhizomes. Slender green drooping flowerhead, summer-autumn and throughout year

Seed Collection:

May be difficult to harvest because mature seed drop from flower spike. Run stems lightly between fingers. Light-brown ripe seed come off easily.

Propagation:

From seed, which germinates readily, or from division.

VALUES:

Wildlife:

Good habitat. Cover for ground-dwelling reptiles, such as legless lizards and skinks, and seed for native birds including parrots. Food for butterfly caterpillars.

Ornamental:

Decorative ornamental for rockeries, or groundcover under trees. Plant in groups for best effect. One of best low-maintenance native lawns. Can be mown occasionally.

Other:

Good forage and highly competitive. Increases under grazing and rising fertility.