Native Wheatgrass
Anthosachne solandri
A native wheatgrass forming upright clumps with narrow leaves and wheat-like spikes. Suited to dry, sunny, lean soils with perfect drainage. Excellent for dryland plantings and low input landscapes. grasses .
Plant Description
Perennial tussock with erect culms and wheat-like spikes; narrow leaves may be somewhat glaucous. Performs on lean, dry soils; too-rich conditions cause lax growth and lodging.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Anthosachne solandri |
|---|---|
| Family | Poaceae |
| Form | Upright tussock; wheat-like spikes |
| Light | Full sun |
| Soil | Lean, free-draining; gravel/sand |
| Water | Low; 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 | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Dry, sunny districts with airflow and rapid drainage; unsuitable for heavy, fertile soils.
Regional Suitability
| 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
Native Wheatgrass is widespread throughout New Zealand, inhabiting diverse dry, open environments from coastal cliffs and sand dunes to rocky outcrops and open grasslands in montane zones. It thrives in well-drained, often lean soils, tolerating full sun, strong winds, and exposure to salt spray in coastal areas. Its adaptability makes it a common sight across various dryland ecosystems.
Plant Conservation
Classified as 'Not Threatened', Anthosachne solandri is a common and widespread native grass in New Zealand. Its robust nature and ability to colonize disturbed areas mean its populations are generally secure. It plays a role in restoration ecology, particularly for stabilizing coastal and dryland sites, where it helps prevent erosion and re-establish native plant communities.
Growing Requirements
Soil
Lean, free-draining; add grit to heavy soils; avoid high fertility.
Light
Full sun for compact growth and seed-head quality.
Water
Low once established; water to establish only.
Planting Guide
Planting Steps
Set crowns slightly proud in lean, gritty soil; water to settle; mulch with gravel; space 40‑60 cm; cut back old stems in late winter to refresh growth.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
As an indigenous grass, Anthosachne solandri plays a significant ecological role in its habitats. Its dense fibrous root system is highly effective at stabilizing soils, particularly in sandy coastal areas and erosion-prone slopes. It provides vital food and shelter for a variety of native invertebrates, including the larvae of several endemic grass moths, and its seeds are a food source for native birds. Its tussock form also offers microhabitats for ground-dwelling insects and lizards.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Highly valued for restoration projects in dryland and coastal environments due to its excellent soil-stabilizing properties and drought tolerance. In horticulture, it is an attractive ornamental grass for low-maintenance landscaping, rock gardens, and dry borders. It can be used as a tough, informal lawn alternative in low-traffic, sunny areas, particularly on free-draining soils.
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
Minimal pruning is required. Remove any dead or discoloured foliage and spent flower stalks in late winter or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage fresh growth. If a clump becomes overly dense or untidy, it can be cut back hard (to about 5-10 cm) to rejuvenate the plant. This is best done every few years to maintain vigor.
How to Grow Native Wheatgrass
From Seed
Anthosachne solandri is a prolific seeder and is easily grown from fresh seed. Collect seed heads in late summer or autumn when they have turned a straw colour and the seeds detach easily. Sow the seeds in autumn or spring onto a seed-raising mix that is free-draining and low in nutrients. Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of fine grit or vermiculite to hold them in place. Keep the tray in a warm, light position and maintain slight moisture, avoiding saturation. Germination is usually rapid and reliable. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual small pots or tubes and grow them on until they have established a good root system.
From Division
Established clumps can be propagated by division, which is an effective way to rejuvenate older plants. The best time for division is in late winter or early spring, just before the new season's growth begins. Lift the entire clump from the ground and carefully pull it apart into smaller sections, ensuring each division has several healthy shoots and a substantial portion of the root system. Replant these divisions immediately into their permanent positions or into containers with fresh potting mix. Water them in well to settle the soil around the roots.
General Cultivation
This native wheatgrass is exceptionally hardy and low-maintenance once established. It thrives in full sun and requires very well-drained, lean soil; it will struggle or become floppy in heavy, wet, or highly fertile ground. It is highly tolerant of drought, wind, and frost, making it ideal for exposed coastal sites or alpine rock gardens. To maintain a tidy appearance, comb through the foliage in winter to remove dead leaves or cut the entire clump back hard in early spring to encourage fresh, vibrant blue-green growth. It often self-sows in the garden, creating natural drifts over time.
Pests & Diseases
Generally a robust and healthy grass. Its main problems arise from incorrect siting, particularly in overly fertile or poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot or fungal issues like rust. Good air circulation is essential, especially in humid conditions, to prevent leaf spot or mildew. Pests are uncommon, but occasional grass-specific insects may appear on stressed plants. Maintaining dry, open conditions minimizes problems.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
This native wheatgrass holds botanical significance as it was named after Daniel Solander, the renowned botanist who accompanied Captain Cook on his first voyage to New Zealand. As a widespread indigenous grass, it is an integral part of New Zealand's natural landscapes and ecosystems, embodying the resilience and adaptability of native flora to varied and sometimes harsh conditions, especially in dryland environments.
Bonus Tip
Lawn Alternative
Anthosachne solandri can be used as a rustic, meadow-like lawn component in dry areas. It won't form a tight turf like ryegrass, but it provides a soft, waving green cover that requires minimal mowing and no irrigation.
