Description
Common names
Spiny-headed Mat-rush, Cockies bootlaces, Long Leaved Matrush, Spiny-headed Mat Rush, Honey Reed, Spinyhead Matrush.
Scientific names
Lomandra longifolia.
Family
Lomandraceae.
Genus
Lomandra.
Presence in Australia
Noted on the drier sites of most areas in region.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, WA.
Habitat
Various habitats.
Habit
Tufted perennial herb with leaves usually 50cm-1m long.
Site preference
Prefers moist well-drained soil and semi-shade. Tolerates dryness, poor drainage, waterlogging to 10cm deep, and full sun to full shade.
Characteristics
Very hardy.
Flowering
Creamy or yellow, strongly honey-scented flowers in spring.
Seed collection
Mid Dec to early Mar. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed quickly.
Propagation
From seed, or division of clumps using garden fork. Germinates in 8-10 weeks from fresh seed. Seedlings usually grow strongly.
Shade and shelter
Low-level shelter.
Land protection
Excellent for stabilising banks.
Wildlife
Excellent habitat for ground fauna. Food for butterfly caterpillars and insect-eating birds. Attracts seed-eating native birds. Food plant for caterpillars of native butterflies and moths.
Koori
Tough leaves used by Kooris for fine baskets, mats, eel traps and for binding wounds.
Ornamental
Useful "accent" plant in mixed groupings with shrubs, beside ponds and under trees. Feature in open spaces, such as traffic islands and around large buildings. Excellent in containers.
Other
Nectar and leaf bases edible.