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 4.0Themeda

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.