Poa helmsii

Tall Mountain Tussock-grass

Large, densely tufted perennial. Flowering stems erect, strongly compressed below flowerhead.

FamilyPoaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size15-80 cm high, stems to 1.5 m high
Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
LeavesRough, flat or slightly folded prominently veined leaves, 15-80 cm x 3-8 mm. Sheath pale green.
Flower colourLight green
Flowering timeNovember to March
FlowersContracted pyramidal flowerhead, to 35 cm x 15 cm, 3-8-flowered spikelets, lower bracts 3-veined, narrowly pointed; lower floral bract oblong, 5-veined, hairy on lower part of keel and outer veins only, webby basal hairs.
Bird attractingSeeds, habitat - nesting materials
Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist to wet soils along creeks and in swamps usually above 1000 m. Semi shade.
Garden useA strong tussock for moist cool gardens.
Commercially availableUnlikely to be available within the Shire of Yarra Ranges
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. A rare plant for the Shire, occuring commonly to the east of the boundary.
Aboriginal Use Leaves - string and basket-making