Mount Lofty Grass Tree

Mount Lofty Grass Tree (Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata) is a South Australian grass tree that grows to about 2m tall and 1.5m wide. A large tuft of long, slender leaves slowly builds a thick trunk, and mature plants send up a very tall spike of cream flowers that dries to deep brown. It is slower than most garden plants, but few make such a strong architectural statement.

Why you'll love it

• A uniquely Australian accent. The tuft of long leaves and the eventual trunk give an architectural shape that works as a single focal point.
• Smaller than many grass trees. At around 2m by 1.5m it suits gardens that cannot take the larger species.
• Flower spikes for wildlife. Established plants send up tall spikes of cream flowers, usually in winter. Nectar-eating birds, bees and butterflies visit them, and seed-eating birds such as cockatoos return for the seed.
• Tough in clay and rock. It grows in clay soils and very rocky ground and handles exposed positions. Frost tolerance is reported down to about minus 5 degrees Celsius, and it is heat hardy.
• Waterwise. Once established it is drought tolerant, so it belongs in dry gardens and low water plantings.

Where it works best

Rockeries and dry gardens. Plant it as a single accent among stones and low native groundcovers in full sun, and allow 1.5m around it so the crown of leaves can spread.

Landscape feature and legacy planting. A grass tree is a long-term plant. Many gardeners plant one as a legacy, a feature that keeps improving for decades.

Pots and revegetation. Young plants grow well in a large, free draining pot for some years. It also belongs in revegetation plantings in its home ranges of South Australia.

Growing Mount Lofty Grass Tree in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun, though it tolerates part shade. It is heat hardy and frost tolerant to about minus 5 degrees Celsius, and it suits warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and dry inland gardens. Avoid humid, sheltered corners, because too much humidity can encourage fungus.

Soil. Well drained soil is essential. This species copes with clay and very rocky ground, so long as water does not sit around the crown. Take care not to bury the crown: the growing point should sit at or just above soil level.

Water and feed. Water young plants as needed until they settle, then step back. Extra water speeds growth, but a plant raised on generous watering copes less well with harsh conditions later, so be sparing.

Pruning. None is needed. Leave the old leaves in place, and remove the dry flower spike only if you want a tidier plant.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Mount Lofty Grass Tree as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube. Grass trees are slow growers, so expect a small grassy tuft rather than a trunk, with the trunk and the first flower spike taking years to develop. These plants are seed grown, so each one varies a little, as it would in the wild.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• More Australian native plants
• Rockery plants for dry, sunny spots
• Drought tolerant plants for dry gardens
• Designing a native garden to attract wildlife

Common questions

How fast does a Mount Lofty Grass Tree grow?

Slowly. Tube plants make a tuft of leaves for several years, and the trunk builds over a long time. Regular watering speeds growth, but moderate watering gives a tougher plant.

Will it grow in clay or rocky soil?

Yes. This species handles clay and very rocky ground, provided the drainage is good and the crown sits at soil level, not below it.

Can I plant it in a humid, sheltered spot?

It is best avoided. Too much humidity in a sheltered position can encourage fungus, so choose an open, sunny, airy site.