Overview
Themeda australis is a plant with a clump-forming perennial habit in the genus Themeda, part of the Poaceae family, with linear, narrow leaves foliage. Themeda australis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, erosion control and wildlife habitat.
About
Themeda australis, commonly known as kangaroo grass, is a clump-forming perennial belonging to the Poaceae family. It features linear, narrow leaves and thrives in full sun, ideally in a south-facing, sheltered position. This grass prefers fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH and can tolerate conditions ranging from dry to moist. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is valued for ornamental use, erosion control, and providing wildlife habitat, with its interest peaking in spring and summer. Propagation is achieved by seed or division.
About the genus
Themeda is a genus of plants in the grass family native to Asia, Africa, Australia, and Papuasia. There are about 18 to 26 species, many of which are native to Southeast Asia.SpeciesThemeda anathera (Nees ex Steud.) Hack. - Afghanistan, Himalayas, Tibet Themeda arguens (L.) Hack.
Wikipedia contributors, "Themeda", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Themeda
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Themeda
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Dry to moist
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Themeda australis size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming perennial
- Foliage
- Linear, narrow leaves
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass, erosion control, wildlife habitat
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Themeda australis
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-resistant
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Themeda australis?
Themeda australis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Themeda australis need?
Themeda australis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to moist.
Is Themeda australis hardy in the UK?
Themeda australis has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Themeda australis?
Seed, division.