An iconic native grassland species with blue-green tufts that turn russet-bronze in summer and nodding rusty seed heads. Drought-hardy, it suits meadows and low-water plantings.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 80 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Kangaroo Grass
Themeda triandra is a moderate-growing ornamental grass in the Poaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. It reaches around 80 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and rich in autumn colour foliage. Red flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Kangaroo Grass
Kangaroo Grass suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate, subtropical and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is usually left alone by rabbits.
Soil & planting
Kangaroo Grass does best in free-draining, sandy, clay and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Kangaroo Grass handles dry conditions well once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Kangaroo Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Kangaroo Grass in the garden
Kangaroo Grass earns its place for holding soil on banks and slopes and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
Kangaroo Grass sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Kangaroo Grass
Plant Sale lists Kangaroo Grass as tube stock and seed. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Kangaroo Grass seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
