Austrostipa nodosa

Knotty Spear-grass

Loosely tufted perennial grass with stout erect flowering stems, nodes much wider than stems. Leaves basal and on stems. Flowerhead rises from uppermost leaf sheath.

Additional information

SynonymStipa nodosa
FamilyPoaceae
StoreyLower storey
Sizeto 30 cm high, stems 0.5-1.2 m high
Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
LeavesRough or downy, stiff, flat to weakly inrolled leaves to 30 cm x 1-2 mm.
Flower colourPurple, becoming straw-coloured
Flowering timeAugust to October
FlowersSlender, sparse flowerhead to 50 cm long with single florets. Floral bract 4-7 mm long, golden brown, smooth, few short white or yellow hairs; bristle sickle-shaped, 45-90 mm, column small, rough or downy.
Bird attractingSeeds
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist well drained to dry fertile soils in woodland and open forest. Full sun, semi shade.
Garden useGraceful grass with attractive flowerheads. Drift through trees or use as accent plants in garden beds and rockeries. Tip of florets can be sharp, penetrating skin of people, pets and stock.
Commercially availableNo information available
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. Widespread in northern abnd western Victoria.