Family: Asphodelaceae
Author: D.J.Bedford
Bibliography: Fl. Australia 46: 226 (1986)
Year: 1986
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Xanthorrhoea
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Queensland to Vicotria
Description
The Grass tree, scientifically known as Xanthorrhoea glauca, is a distinct and iconic plant native to Australia. Meticulously described in Flora of Australia Volume 46 by the botanist D.J. Bedford in 1986, the Grass tree has since been recognized for its resilient and unique appearance.
Primarily found in the regions extending from southeastern Queensland to Victoria, Xanthorrhoea glauca is a striking member of the Asphodelaceae family. The plant is distinguished by its robust, tufted foliage and its often spear-like flowering spikes, which can rise dramatically above the dense crown of long, green leaves. The tree’s characteristic trunk is a result of its slow growth and gradual accumulation of old, dried foliage bases, providing a habitat for numerous small creatures and contributing to the ecological richness of its natural environments.
Grass trees are well adapted to their native landscapes, often flourishing in poor, sandy soils where other plants might struggle. They are incredibly fire-resistant and can regenerate quickly following wildfires, a feature that underscores their evolutionary adaptations to Australia’s fire-prone environments. This resilience makes them a notable species for both ecological and landscaping purposes.
The Grass tree’s foliage can grow up to more than a meter in length, with the leaves themselves being thin, tough, and typically blue-green, a hue suggested by the species name “glauca.” During the flowering season, which usually follows a fire event, the plant produces tall spikes adorned with small, creamy-white flowers. These flower spikes attract a variety of pollinators, including birds and insects, thereby playing a significant role in the ecosystem’s reproductive processes.
In addition to its ecological importance, the Grass tree holds cultural significance for many Indigenous Australian communities, who have historically used various parts of the plant for food, tools, and materials. The resin produced by the plant was particularly valued and utilized in traditional practices.
Due to its slow growth rate and attractive architectural form, Xanthorrhoea glauca is also a favored species in ornamental horticulture. However, the conservation of natural populations is critical, as habitat destruction and illegal harvesting pose potential threats to its persistence in the wild.
In summary, Xanthorrhoea glauca, or the Grass tree, is a remarkable and resilient species native to Australia with significant ecological, cultural, and horticultural value. Its adaptation to challenging environments and capacity for rapid post-fire regeneration make it a vital species within its native range.
Common Names
En: Grass Tree
: Grass tree
Synonyms
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Victoria (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Aug 8, 2020 by Haffif Novosybirsky (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 23, 2022 by Philippe Garnier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 7, 2019 by gbb prototype (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 19, 2019 by Jia Hui Tiong (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 19, 2019 by Jia Hui Tiong (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Aug 4, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Jacques Marquis (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2022 by sandrine morel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 18, 2015 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 18, 2015 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Apr 18, 2015 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 18, 2015 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2779423)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:929685-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Xanthorrhoea glauca D.J.Bedford)