Imperata cylindrica
Blady Grass
Coarse, erect perennial grass, spreading vigorously from underground stems. Flowering stem erect.
Additional information
- FamilyPoaceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Size0.3-0.7 m high, stems to 1 m high
- Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
- LeavesNarrow, flat, mottled pale green leaves to 60 cm x 1.5 cm. Midrib prominent, margins finely serrated. Silky hairs at nodes and above sheath projection.
- Flower colourWhite
- Flowering timeNovember to March
- FlowersDense, fluffy cylindrical spike-like flowerhead 7-20 cm long. Pairs of 2-flowered spikelets, one stalked, one stalkless, hidden by long silky hairs on back of and below lower pair of bracts. Does not always flower.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
- Frog habitatYes
- Growing conditionsMoist well drained soils in moist and heathy woodland and lowland forest. Full sun, semi shade.
- Garden useAn ornamental grass with attractive flowerheads which appear more commonly after fire. Use as an understorey in moist areas. Important habitat plant.
- Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
- Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1 Colleen Miller ©; 2 David Blair ©
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