Poaceae

Aristida jerichoensis var. subspinulifera; A. j. var. jerichoensis (rare in area)

Often in woodland communities on gravelly loam, clay loam and sandy loam soils. Sometimes found on deep sandy soils on sandplains.

Tufted perennial with stem erect to 60cm high. Leaves mostly basal. Flowers are slender to approx. 12cm long, and seeds have three awns. (Oct-Feb).

Mature seeds are pale or purplish, and fall to the ground in a tangled mass. Propagation is by division or from seed. Seed may be slow to germinate. Tolerates severe drought. Seeds are sharp, damage animal hides and contaminate wool.

Not valuable as fodder except during drought.