Grasstree
(Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata)
Grasstree (Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata)
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manuel m. v.
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
manuel m. v.
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: manuel m. v. | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: M. Martin Vicente | Publisher: Flickr

























Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for Celina, Texas
This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
• Precipitation | 5" - 53" | 39" | Aquatic | Aquatic |
• High Temp. | 76°F - 101°F | 95°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
• Low Temp. | 36°F - 45°F | 32°F | Your winter temperatures may be too cold for this plant | Too cold |
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.
Summary
Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata, commonly known as Grasstree, is an evergreen perennial native to the sclerophyll forests and coastal heathlands of South Australia. It can reach heights of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) with an equal spread, and features a distinctive trunk topped with a dense crown of narrow, grass-like leaves. The Grasstree is known for its unique, spear-like flower spikes that can rise 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) above the foliage, bearing numerous small, creamy-white flowers during spring and summer. These flowers are quite showy and attract a variety of pollinators.
The Grasstree is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a striking feature in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and native plantings. It is also used as a focal point in modern landscape designs. This plant requires minimal maintenance once established, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils. It is adapted to survive in nutrient-poor conditions and is highly fire-resistant, often being one of the first species to regenerate after a bushfire. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. The Grasstree is slow-growing, which should be considered when planning a garden design.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Grasstree is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a striking feature in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and native plantings. It is also used as a focal point in modern landscape designs. This plant requires minimal maintenance once established, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils. It is adapted to survive in nutrient-poor conditions and is highly fire-resistant, often being one of the first species to regenerate after a bushfire. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. The Grasstree is slow-growing, which should be considered when planning a garden design.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 3-5 feet
- Width: 3-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to sclerophyll forests and coastal heathlands of South Australia
Other Names
Common Names: Grass Gum-Tree, Kangaroo Tail
Scientific Names: Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata
GBIF Accepted Name: Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata F.Muell.