Xanthorrhoea glauca
Grass Tree
The Xanthorrhoea glauca, commonly known as the Grass Tree, is a slow-growing and iconic Australian native plant renowned for its striking architectural form. It features a dense crown of long, slender, grass-like leaves atop a rough, blackened trunk that can grow up to 5 meters tall. Mature plants may produce tall flower spikes reaching up to 3 meters, covered in small, creamy-white blossoms that attract birds and pollinators.
Highly drought-tolerant and uniquely beautiful, the Grass Tree is perfect for native gardens, xeriscaping, or as a statement plant in contemporary landscapes.
Specifications
- Height2–5 meters (including flower spike)
- Width1–2 meters (crown diameter)
- Native toAustralia (eastern states, including Queensland and New South Wales)
- FoliageLong, slender, grass-like leaves; evergreen
- Growth rateVery slow
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils; tolerates poor and nutrient-deficient soils
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterLow; highly drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in arid, temperate, and subtropical regions
Additional Features
- FlowersTall spikes of creamy-white blossoms; sporadic flowering, often following fire or drought stress
- FormDistinctive black trunk with a dense crown of arching leaves
- UsesIdeal for feature planting, native gardens, xeriscaping, or as a sculptural focal point
- SpacingPlant 2–3 meters apart for individual displays
- Low MaintenanceRequires minimal care; remove dead leaves as needed
- Pest ResistanceNaturally hardy and resilient
- Drought ToleranceExcellent for water-wise gardens
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract birds, bees, and other pollinators
- LongevityExtremely long-lived; some specimens are hundreds of years old
- Fire ResistanceBlackened trunk is naturally fire-resistant, a key adaptation to Australian bushland
- VersatilityComplements native, contemporary, and minimalist garden styles
The Grass Tree is a unique and resilient plant, perfect for adding dramatic structure, cultural significance, and low-maintenance greenery to landscapes.