Description
Common names
Windmill Grass, Umbrella Grass, Star Grass, Blow-away Grass, Star Or Windmill Grass, Windmill-grass.
Scientific names
Chloris truncata.
Family
Poaceae.
Genus
Chloris.
Growth height
Up to 0.5m.
Presence in Australia
Widespread, throughout most areas of region.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, SA, NT, WA.
Habitat
Many soil and community types. More common on red or black earths.
Habit
Erect, hairless perennial to 50cm high, forming dense low crown of small fibrous leaves. Sometimes with short, branched stolons, and distinctive flower spike, late winter to summer.
Site preference
Moderate drought tolerance. Low frost tolerance.
Characteristics
Relatively short-lived.
Seed collection
Early Jan to mid Mar. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed in 3-14 days.
Propagation
Store for 12 months before sowing due to after-ripening period, or overcome dormancy be removing structures enclosing seeds. Germinates at 15-350C. Suited to direct seeding into pots (2-3 per pot), and in the field. Germinates in 2-3 weeks.
Wildlife
Good habitat. Seed eaten by native birds, including finches. Cover for small reptiles. High forage value but does not appear to be readily grazed, unless young growth.
Ornamental
Resilient lawn grass, or spectacular ornamental. Plant in groups for best effect. Rejuvenate old plants by severe trimming or burning, and water afterwards to encourage growth.
Other
Forage value increases in response to grazing and raised fertility.