Lomandraceae

Noted on the drier sites of most areas in region.

Various habitats. Very hardy. Prefers moist well-drained soil and semi-shade. Tolerates dryness, poor drainage, waterlogging to 10 cm deep, and full sun to full shade. 

Tufted perennial herb with leaves usually 50-100 cm long. Creamy or yellow, strongly honey-scented flowers in spring.

Mid Dec to early Mar. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed quickly.

From seed, or division of clumps using garden fork. Germinates in 8-10 weeks from fresh seed. Seedlings usually grow strongly.

Low-level shelter.

Excellent for stabilising banks. 

Excellent habitat for ground fauna. Food for butterfly caterpillars and insect-eating birds. Attracts seed-eating native birds. Food plant for caterpillars of native butterflies and moths.

Tough leaves used for fine baskets, mats, eel traps and for binding wounds.

Useful ‘accent’ plant in mixed groupings with shrubs, beside ponds and under trees. Feature in open spaces, such as traffic islands and around large buildings. Excellent in containers.

Nectar and leaf bases edible.