Anthosachne aprica tussock with narrow leaves and wheat-like seed heads

Blue Wheat Grass

Anthosachne aprica

Not Threatened

A native wheatgrass (Elymus/Anthosachne complex) forming upright clumps with narrow leaves and wheat-like seed heads. Suited to dry, sunny, free-draining ground in lowland to montane districts. Useful in dryland restoration and as a textural accent in gravel plantings. grasses .

Close view of wheat-like spike typical of native wheatgrasses (representative)
Image credit: Blue Wheat Grass ( Anthosachne aprica ) - Photo by Wikipedia contributors, via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Perennial tussock with narrow leaves and erect culms bearing wheat-like spikes. Glumes and lemmas may be awned; seed heads persist for seasonal interest. Adapted to lean, dry soils and high light.

Quick Facts

Anthosachne aprica quick facts
Scientific Name Anthosachne aprica
Family Poaceae
Form Upright tussock; wheat-like seed heads
Light Full sun
Soil Free-draining, lean; gravelly/sandy soils
Water Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Height 40-60 cm
Spread Clump-forming to 40-60 cm
Water Needs Low to moderate; free-draining soils
Frost Tolerance High - tolerant of severe freezes
Salt Tolerance Moderate to high (coastal species)
Growth Rate Fast
Lifespan Long-lived perennial

Climate Best Suited to

Dry, sunny districts; performs in coastal to inland sites if drainage is good.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Anthosachne aprica
City Climate Suitability
Auckland Ideal
Wellington Ideal
Christchurch Ideal
Dunedin Ideal
Whangārei Suitable
Hamilton Suitable
Tauranga Suitable
Rotorua Suitable
Gisborne Suitable
New Plymouth Suitable
Napier Suitable
Whanganui Suitable
Palmerston North Suitable
Nelson Suitable
Invercargill Suitable

Plant Habitat

occurs in natural habitats characteristic of Aotearoa, forming part of distinctive plant communities where site stress and local disturbance shape vegetation patterns. It favours exposed slopes, screes or fellfields with thin, rapidly drained mineral soils, enduring intense radiation, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. On the coast it occupies sunny, wind‑prone sites with sandy or rocky substrates, where salt‑laden air and periodic drought limit competition. These preferences explain its patchy distribution and sensitivity to changes in hydrology, competition and disturbance regimes. Anthosachne aprica

Plant Conservation

are influenced by land use, browsing and weeds. Protecting intact habitat mosaics, reducing browser pressure, and managing invasive plants sustain recruitment. Where local stands are small or isolated, eco‑sourced augmentation and careful site stewardship help secure long‑term viability. Anthosachne aprica Populations of

Growing Requirements

Soil

Lean, free-draining soils; avoid rich mixes which cause lodging.

Light

Full sun for compact growth and best seed-heads.

Water

Low; water to establish, then sparingly.

Planting Guide

Planting Steps

Plant in the cool, moist months into weed‑free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Grouping two to three plants replicates natural patterns and improves establishment under local conditions.

Ecological Role

Environmental Benefits

contributes structure and seasonal resources where it grows, providing cover and habitat for invertebrates and, when flowering or fruiting, nectar, pollen or seed for fauna. By tolerating the stresses of its environment, it helps stabilise sites and enrich small‑scale habitat diversity. Anthosachne aprica

Uses

Traditional and Modern Applications

Ideal for rock and gravel gardens that emulate alpine processes, or for specialised collections. Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations.

Landscaping Uses

Garden Design Applications

Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.

Seasonal Care

Year-Round Maintenance

Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.

Pruning

Pruning Techniques

Little pruning is required; remove dead or crossing material after flowering and avoid hard renovation cuts. Light tip‑pruning maintains compact form without compromising the plant’s natural character.

How to Grow Blue Wheat Grass

Cultivation Requirements

Anthosachne aprica is most successfully grown from fresh seed, which should be collected from wild populations in late summer to early winter (February to June) when seeds are fully mature. This endemic blue wheat grass is not commercially available, so seed collection from natural populations or conservation groups is necessary. Store dry seeds in paper bags and keep them warm and dry to prevent fungal problems.

Seed Propagation

Sow fresh, viable seed in late winter to spring (August to September) when temperatures are cool but warming. Use a well-draining seed-raising mix with excellent drainage, as this species dislikes humidity and heavy soils. Provide high light conditions but protect seedlings from intense summer heat. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks under optimal conditions. Keep the growing medium consistently moist but never waterlogged during germination.

Division and Establishment

Mature clumps can be carefully divided in late winter or early spring. This method is reliable but should only be attempted with well-established plants. Dig up the entire clump and gently separate sections ensuring each division has healthy roots and growing points. Plant divisions immediately into prepared sites with excellent drainage. This species performs best in full sun with free-draining, gravelly soils that mimic its natural alpine habitat.

Growing Conditions

Anthosachne aprica is adapted to dry alpine climates and may struggle in rich soil with high humidity. Provide full sun exposure and well-drained soil - preferably sandy or gravelly substrates. Avoid heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage. This grass is naturally drought-tolerant once established but requires consistent moisture during the establishment phase. Plant during cooler months (April to May or August to September) to reduce transplant shock and water stress.

Pests & Diseases

Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. Crown and root rots arise if winter wet persists; keep crowns elevated and water moving. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.

Cultural Significance

Traditional Uses and Values

Indigenous landscapes and the species that persist within them are taonga. Honouring whakapapa and kaitiakitanga means protecting habitats, using eco‑sourced plants in restoration, and passing on knowledge about local names, uses and tikanga so these relationships endure.

Bonus Tip

Drought Adaptation

This Wheatgrass is highly drought-tolerant. Its blue-green foliage is an adaptation to reflect intense sunlight and conserve water, making it a top choice for sustainable, water-wise garden designs in dry, rain-shadow climates like Canterbury.