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Image Credit: light-up-gold CC BY-NC
Scientific Name: Rytidosperma carphoides
Common Name: short wallabygrass
Family Classification (Clade): Monocots
Family: Poaceae
Form Description: Erect, tufted perennial grass, with hairless stems longer than the leaves.
Height (m): 0.1 – 0.25
Flowers: In a flower head of erect spikelets.
Fruit: Caryopsis
Municipality
Plant Communities
Habitat Notes
Uncommon, in lowland areas in the Midlands and on the east coast.
Propagation Calendar
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Flowering Month
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec -
Seed Collecting Month
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec -
Sowing Month
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec -
Cutting Month
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Propagation Method
Seed Information
Seed Collection
Seed heads dry out and turn from green to off-white as seed ripens. Seed is released within 3-14 days of seed maturity. Seed should release from heads easily. Harvest by cutting stalks with secateurs, rub seed heads between 2 rubber car mats to extract seed, and sieve to clean. Mice are attracted to the seed; storage in jars is recommended.
Seed Treatment Method
Storage Stratification at 3-5°C for up to 3 months may improve results. Place seed in a damp medium, lightly covered. Put moist seeds in a plastic bag and store in the fridge.
Seed Storage Life
At least 2-3 years.
Seed Treatment Notes
Some Rytidosperma species have an after-ripening period, and will need to be stored for at least 3 months. Best results are with temperatures between 15 and 25°C. Suitable for direct seeding.
Germination Time
3-5 weeks