Lomandra longifolia ssp. exilis

Spiny-headed Mat-rush, Karawun

Dense perennial tussock. Male and female flowers on separate plants.

Additional information

• FamilyAsparagaceae (syn. Xanthorrhoeaceae)
• StoreyLower storey
• Size0.5-1 m x 0.5-1.2 m
• Plant groupingLilies & Irises
• LeavesSmooth bright green strap-like leaves 0.5-1 m x 2-4 mm, flat to slightly curved, tip 2- to 3-pointed.
• Flower colourYellow
• Flowering timeOctober to December
• FlowersFlower spikes to 15 cm long of scented flowers in rings, male unbranched, less than 3 cm wide; female may be unbranched. Stem of spike purplish. Spiky bracts about equal to each flower cluster. Capsules orange.
• Bird attractingSeeds
• Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsWell drained dry to rocky soils in foothill woodlands and forests. Frost tolerant. Full sun, semi to dappled shade.
• Garden useExcellent landscaping plant, very tolerant of a range of conditions including dry shade. Provides a vertical line in the garden.
• Commercially availableRarely
• Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from few local sites.
• Aboriginal Use Food - nectar; Leaves - basket-making
• Related speciesLomandra longifolia ssp. longifolia is distinguished by broader leaves, male spikes larger, branched, larger floral bracts, spike stem yellow or green.

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