Xanthorrhoea glaucaGrass 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 metres tall. Mature plants may produce tall flower spikes reaching up to 3 metres, 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 to 5 metres (including flower spike)
• Width1 to 2 metres (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 to 3 metres 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.