NZ Blue Wheat Grass
Anthosachne solandri
Anthosachne solandri, commonly known as New Zealand Blue Wheat Grass, is a medium-sized and highly variable perennial grass endemic to New Zealand. A member of the Poaceae family, it is valued for its striking glaucous (blue-grey) foliage and its ability to form loose, attractive clumps in open habitats. Primarily found across both the North and South Islands, it has evolved to occupy a wide range of environments from coastal cliffs to high-altitude screes. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its unique features, care, and the important role it plays within its native ecosystems. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for all native species.
Plant Description
Identification and Physical Characteristics
Anthosachne solandriis a tufted perennial grass that typically grows in loose, spreading clumps of medium stature. It is distinguished by its flat, typically glaucous blue-grey leaf blades, though some regional forms can appear bright green. During the flowering season, from September to February, the plant produces inflorescences containing between 3 and 15 spikelets. Each spikelet features multiple florets characterized by distinctive long, recurved awns that give the seed heads a graceful, arching appearance. The overall form of the plant is highly variable across New Zealand, showing significant differences in leaf width, glaucousness, and inflorescence compactness depending on its regional origin and local environmental conditions.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Anthosachne solandri |
|---|---|
| Height | 30-60 cm (flowering) |
| Spread | 30-50 cm |
| Water Needs | Moderate; requires good drainage |
| Light | Full sun to bright light |
| Frost Tolerance | High; cold hardy |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate; found in coastal sites |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Anthosachne solandriis well adapted to various New Zealand regions, particularly where exposed, sunny, and well-drained conditions are available across both islands.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Medium |
| Wellington | High |
| Christchurch | High |
| Napier | High |
Plant Habitat
Natural Occurrence and Ecology
In its natural environment, New Zealand Blue Wheat Grass is found in a diverse range of open habitats across both the North and South Islands. It has evolved to occupy niches from sea level up to approximately 1,500 meters in altitude. It is commonly found on coastal cliffs, inland riverbeds, stable screes, and moraines. It is also a characteristic component of many inland tussock grasslands. It prefers open, exposed sites with thin, mineral-rich, and well-drained soils. Its broad ecological amplitude allows it to persist in challenging environments where soil moisture may be variable and exposure to wind and solar radiation is high throughout the year.
Growing Requirements
Soil Requirements
Prefers well-draining, stony or sandy mineral soil.
- Well-drained
- Mineral-rich
Light Requirements
Grows best in full sun to very bright indirect light.
- Full Sun
- Bright Exposure
Water Requirements
Requires moderate watering; avoid excessive humidity or wet.
- Moderate
- Avoid waterlogging
Planting and Establishing
Establishment Guidance
To successfully establish Anthosachne solandri, choose a position that mimics its natural open heritage: full sun and excellent drainage are essential. It thrives in lean, well-drained soil and may be short-lived if grown in overly humid or wet climates. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and set the plant slightly proud of the surrounding soil to prevent rot around the crown. Maintain consistent moisture during the initial establishment period, and once settled, this grass is relatively drought-tolerant. Applying a layer of mineral mulch like grit or gravel can help keep the central crown dry and healthy while maintaining root moisture.
Ecological Role
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact
NZ Blue Wheat Grass plays a vital role in open ecosystems by providing structure and shelter for specialized native invertebrates. Its showy flowering stems and seeds offer a seasonal food resource for various native fauna, including birds and pollinators. By forming stable clumps in rocky and exposed habitats, it contributes to the stabilization of thin soils and enhances small-scale habitat diversity. Its presence in tussock grasslands and riverbeds is an indicator of the health of these unique plant communities, which are increasingly threatened by land development and the spread of aggressive invasive exotic species across the New Zealand landscape.
Uses & Significance
Garden Uses
In a garden setting, Anthosachne solandriis an excellent choice for specialized alpine rockeries, coastal gardens, or contemporary native borders. Its striking blue-grey foliage provides a clean architectural form that provides year-round structure and textural interest. Due to its loose clumping habit, it is particularly suited for creating focal points in minimalist designs where its unique colour can be highlighted against a gravel or schist backdrop. It is highly valued by native plant enthusiasts wishing to showcase the diverse and specialized evolutionary history of New Zealand's native grass species.
- Rock gardens
- Coastal planting
- Textural contrast
Ecological Value
Beyond its ornamental appeal, this species is important for supporting local biodiversity. It provides a micro-habitat for ground-dwelling fauna and supports native pollinator networks with its seasonal flower display. As an endemic species, it is part of the important group of native grasses that represent New Zealand's unique botanical heritage, acting as both a stabilizer of rocky ground and a critical component of the country's open-country communities, where it has evolved to thrive in some of our most challenging and sun-exposed environments.
- Invertebrate refuge
- Pollinator support
Landscaping Uses
Modern landscaping can utilize Anthosachne solandrito create naturalistic ground layers in specialized rocky or contemporary designs. Its architectural foliage makes it a perfect softening element for the edges of gravel paths or as a striking textural accent among large decorative rocks in a sunny courtyard. Designers often use it to add a sense of detail and 'wildness' to a project, where its loose clumps and blue-green colour can be highlighted. Its ability to maintain a neat profile while tolerating exposed conditions makes it a reliable and decorative performer for high-impact native landscaping across New Zealand.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring
As new growth resumes, monitor soil moisture but avoid over-watering. This is an ideal time for propagation via division of established clumps or taking rooted pieces. Apply a very light dressing of mineral mulch around the crown.
- Monitor growth
- Division
Summer
Peak flowering occurs during the warmer months. Provide occasional deep watering only during prolonged, extreme dry spells to maintain the health of the foliage and prevent the plant from going into premature dormancy due to excessive heat stress.
- Deep watering
- Enjoy flowers
Autumn
The seeds will mature and can be collected for propagation. Tidy up the area by removing any large fallen leaves that might smother the dense growth. Ensure the site remains sharply drained as the weather becomes wetter and cooler.
- Seed collection
- Tidy debris
Winter
Naturally very frost-hardy and adapted to cool conditions. Minimal intervention is required during the dormant winter months; simply ensure the area stays free of heavy organic debris that could trap stagnant moisture around the base.
- Frost protection
- Clear debris
When to Prune and How Much
Anthosachne solandrirequires very little pruning to stay healthy. Maintenance is primarily limited to removing any dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring before the new growth cycle begins. If the plant becomes slightly untidy after seed dispersal, the spent flower umbels can be carefully snipped back near the base. For evergreen clumps, dead debris can also be gently pulled through the foliage by hand. Always use sharp, sterilized tools to ensure clean cuts and to maintain the plant's neat and attractive architectural form throughout the year.
- Remove spent umbels
- Trim dead leaves
Always use clean, sharp tools.
How to Grow NZ Blue Wheat Grass
Cultivating NZ Blue Wheat Grass (Anthosachne solandri) is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener interested in New Zealand's specialized native flora. This resilient species is relatively easy to grow from fresh seed or through the careful division of established clumps. Replicating its natural well-drained, airy habitat is the most critical factor for ensuring long-term success and maintaining its healthy, blue-grey foliage in a garden setting.
From Seed
Propagation from seed is often the most reliable method for producing new plants. Seeds should be collected when they are fully mature and brown. For the best germination rates, sow fresh seeds onto the surface of a moist, well-drained, sandy or grit-heavy seed-raising mix. They require bright light and cool to moderate temperatures to sprout effectively. Keep the medium consistently moist but never waterlogged during the germination phase, and ensure there is good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues. The young and delicate native seedlings should be protected from excessive humidity until they are well-established.
Sow fresh seeds in a gritty mix.
- Collect mature seeds
- Surface sow in autumn
Keep moist until germination occurs.
From Cuttings
Vegetative propagation via division is possible and is best performed in early spring as new growth commences. If a healthy clump has become sufficiently large, it can be carefully divided into rooted pieces, ensuring that each new section has at least one or two active buds and a substantial portion of the original root system. These divisions should be replanted immediately into a gritty, well-drained soil mix and kept in a cool, bright spot until signs of new growth are observed, indicating that they have successfully re-established themselves and are ready for their permanent garden positions.
Division is best attempted in early spring.
- Carefully separate sections
- Replant in gritty soil
Additional Methods
Ensuring the correct environmental conditions is often more critical than complex propagation techniques for this species. It thrives when its roots are kept cool and well-drained within a mineral-rich substrate, making it perfect for specialized rock gardens or alpine collections. Avoid areas subject to high humidity or stagnant soil moisture, which can quickly cause the plant to decline. Once established, the plant is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering during extreme dry spells to maintain its healthy, tufted architectural form and vibrant blue-green colour.
Once planted, it requires very little intervention.
- Monitor soil drainage
- Replant divisions immediately
Pests & Diseases
This species is remarkably resistant to most common garden pests. The primary risk in cultivation is root or crown rot, which occurs if the plant is grown in heavy, poorly drained, or excessively fertile soils. To prevent this, ensure that the planting site has excellent drainage and avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to soft growth that is more susceptible to disease. Young plants should be protected from browsing animals such as rabbits, which find the foliage attractive. Maintaining good air circulation and appropriate environmental conditions is the best way to ensure the long-term health of this hardy grass.
Cultural Significance
As an endemic New Zealand species, Anthosachne solandriis a valued component of the country's botanical heritage. Its species name 'solandri' honors the Swedish botanist Daniel Solander, who collected the type specimen during Captain James Cook's first voyage to New Zealand. While specific traditional Māori uses for this particular grass are less widely documented, it represents the incredible variability and adaptation of Aotearoa's native flora. Today, it stands as a symbol of the unique evolutionary history of New Zealand's open habitats and the ongoing commitment to protecting its specialized native plant communities.
- Botanical history
- Native heritage
Bonus Tip
To truly showcase the striking blue-grey foliage of Anthosachne solandri, plant it in small groupings where its loose clumps can provide a soft contrast to hard landscaping elements like large decorative stones or gravel paths. The unique glaucous colour is most intense when the plant is grown in a very sunny, well-ventilated position, bringing a touch of the wild New Zealand high-country into your garden.
Related Plants
Explore other native plants that share similar characteristics or habitats with Anthosachne Solandri (Anthosachne solandri), offering further insights into New Zealand's diverse flora. These related species provide context and opportunities for complementary planting in your garden.
Plant Conservation
Conservation Status
Currently classified as 'Not Threatened' nationally, Anthosachne solandriremains a common and stable part of New Zealand's diverse flora. However, its populations in some regions, such as Marlborough, have shown declines following changes in grazing patterns, while increasing in others like Canterbury after successful rabbit control. Its continued persistence is linked to the protection of its specialized open and rocky habitats from land development and the spread of aggressive invasive weeds. Ensuring that these natural environments remain protected from excessive disturbance is key to maintaining the healthy populations of NZ Blue Wheat Grass that currently thrive across its natural range.