Poa labillardieri - Common Tussock Grass

Poa labillardierei – Common Tussock Grass

Habit and Habitat:
Poa labillardierei, or Common Tussock Grass, is a robust, cool-climate, perennial grass native to southeastern Australia. Found in moist, fertile soils across open woodlands, grasslands, riparian zones and along the edges of wet forests, this species is known for its large, dense tussocks and graceful, arching foliage. It thrives in areas with reliable rainfall but is adaptable to a variety of conditions once established.

Place in Local Habitat and Ecosystem Distribution:
This grass plays a key structural role in the understorey of many temperate ecosystems, offering habitat for insects, reptiles and ground-dwelling birds. It helps control erosion, particularly on slopes and along waterways, and contributes to soil health through organic matter accumulation. Its widespread distribution throughout Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania and South Australia makes it an important species in both natural and restored landscapes.

Planting Companions:
Common Tussock Grass pairs well with other moisture-loving natives such as Carex appressa, Juncus spp., Lomandra longifolia, and riparian shrubs like Leptospermum lanigerum or Melaleuca squarrosa. In drier gardens, it can still be successful if sited well and accompanied by tough species like Dianella tasmanica, Themeda triandra or Eucalyptus ovata.

Human and Wildlife Uses:
The grass is highly valued as habitat for small animals, especially lizards and frogs, while its fine seeds feed small birds. The dense base of the plant provides year-round shelter. In farming and permaculture contexts, it is used for stabilising damp pastures and riparian edges. There are limited records of direct Indigenous use, though its structural fibre may have been used in weaving or thatching.

Care Instructions:
Poa labillardierei prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to part shade. It will tolerate seasonal inundation and moderate dry periods once established. Though fast-growing, it can become large, so give it space to breathe in design layouts.

Size, Height, Width, Flower and Leaf Characteristics:
This species typically forms broad tussocks 50 to 100 cm high and wide. The blue-green to grey-green leaves are fine and arching, creating a soft, textural presence. Flowering stems appear from late spring through summer, rising well above the foliage with loose, feathery, purplish to straw-coloured panicles that sway elegantly in the wind.

Latin Etymology:
The genus Poa is derived from the Greek word for “fodder” or “grass,” reflecting the plant’s grassy form. The species name labillardierei honours Jacques-Julien Houtou de Labillardière, a French botanist who collected extensively in Australia during the late 18th century.

Traditional Uses:
While not widely documented for traditional use, the species' fibrous leaves and ecological presence in Country suggest potential roles in shelter-building, weaving, and seasonal knowledge systems of First Nations peoples.

Planting Guidelines:
To grow Poa labillardierei in the home garden, select a site with some moisture and sun. It is ideal for rain gardens, swales, damp borders, or adding bulk and movement to habitat-focused designs. Space plants around 80 cm apart for a natural look, and combine with flowering understorey species for colour and diversity. With its adaptability, habitat value and soft form, this grass is a cornerstone of cool-climate native garden design.