A low maintenance native grass, Poa labillardieri is widely used as a feature grass as well as for mass planting.
It is excellent along fencelines and is often found in found in roadside plantings and around commercial buildings.
It is also useful for planting beneath trees, including Eucalypts.
For mass plantings, space at around 50 cm. This a reasonably drought tolerant plant as long as it gets adequate water during winter. P. labillardieri ‘Eskdale’ is reported to more drought tolerant.
Care
Once planted, the temptation is to substitute low maintenance with no maintenance, and this is where Poa labillardieri needs a little explanation.
For the first 2 – 3 years it does not require much care to be kept looking good.
After 2 – 3 years it develops a percentage of old dead foliage, like most other grasses. This need to be removed.
Simply cut the clump right back to the ground in late winter every year or every second year. Rake away the old foliage and the new green growth will quickly reestablish a beautiful clump.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Poa labillardieri
- Common Name – Common Tussock grass, Pot Lab, Large Tussock Grass
- Family –
- Position – Full sun to part shade.
- Soil – Best suited to areas that are damp, beside streams, seepage zones and even coastal areas. Will grow well in most soils.
- Height – To around 1 metre
- Spread – Forms a clump to around .5 metre.
- Growth rate – Medium to fast.
- Flowers – Feathery plumes in summer.
- Foliage – Mid green with a natural slight weeping habit.
- Frost tolerant – Yes
- Drought tolerant – Medium
Poa labillardieri is available for sale from the following nurseries.
Native grasses, sedges, rushes, lilies, wetland plants, ornamental grasses and grass trees. Contract growing. Cells, tubes and pots. Contemporary water wise garden solutions and revegetation specialists. Unique garden decor, pots and original sculptures. Delivery available. www.plantsandlandscapes.com.au