The grass tree is an iconic Australian plant, slow growing, long lived and will give character to the landscape. It has a tuft of grassy leaves atop a dark thick trunk, with cream flowers borne on a tall spear-like spike. Native to Western Australia, it will grow on a variety of soils, but needs to be well drained. If the soil is on the clay side, it will need to be formed into a raised bed to help prevent root rot. Best in full sun. Water regularly while the plant is establishing, but don’t overwater. Will flower only every few years. Tolerates some frost, and dry periods. Best in warm temperate to Mediterranean climates.
Xanthorrhoea preissii – Grass Tree
Family : Xanthorrhoeaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Small shrub, Large shrub, Grass or grass-like
Width : 4
Flowering Time : Summer, Autumn, Winter
Soil Type : Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Poor soil
Climate Zone : Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean, Semi-arid
Growth Habit : Evergreen, Weeping
Soil Moisture : Well-drained
Special Uses : Pipe and drain friendly
Scientific Name: Xanthorrhoea preissii
Common Name : Grass Tree
Height : 7
Flower Color : White, Cream
pH Level : Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Courtyard, Poolside, Container growing, Coastal garden, Drought resistant
Light : Sunny, Light shade
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost
Attracts Wildlife : Bees, Nectar eating birds, Butterflies, Other insects