Accession #: 200000016
Accession Date: 2000-02-21
Common name: Spiny Headed Mat-Rush
Family: Asparagaceae
Synonym(s):
Country of Origin: E. & SE. Australia
Description: A tufted, perennial grass-like plant forming rounded tussocks to 1m tall. Leaves are blue-green to yellow-green, narrow, up to 1m long and less than 1 cm wide, and are prominently toothed at apex.
Small cream to brown flowers are borne in a gongested, much-branched inflorescence, which is carried on a flattened, tough stem to 80cm tall. The inflorescence contains numerous, prominent bracts to 3cm long. The hard, ovoid fruit, about 0.5cm long, is brown and shiny.
Uses: The long smooth leaves were used to make baskets and mats. By beating and soaking the leaves, fibre was separated to make string for net-bags. The flowers provided nectar.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.
USDA Zone: 8-11
Source: David Spence - Seed, Qld, AUS
Provenance:
Restrictions:
Culture:
common in sandy soils, often near watercourses. Found in a wide range of areas from tropical to cool. Frost tolerant to around -7C.