Oplismenus hirtellus

Australian Basket-grass

Trailing weak annual or perennial grass rooting at leaf nodes.

FamilyPoaceae
StoreyLower storey
Sizestems prostrate - 40 cm high
Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
LeavesNarrow flat leaves 1-8 cm x 3-10 mm, margins often wavy; fringe of hairs at the top of sheath.
Flower colourShiny pale floral bracts
Flowering timeAugust to March
FlowersNarrow spike-like flowerhead 4-12 cm long, branches separated, in 2 lines along stem. Single or small clusters of tiny spikelets with few stiff hairs below each; lowest bracts egg-shaped, lower with long bristle, upper bristle shorter or absent
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist soil, generally in warm-temperate rainforest. Full shade.
Garden useDelicate creeping grass for cool shady moist gardens.
Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from one location. Generally located in East Gippsland.