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Anthosachne scabra

Anthosachne scabra · Poaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant anthosachne scabra: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Evergreen
Flowering
Summer (June to September)
Mature size
60 to 90 cm tall
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Hardy (USDA zones 6-9)
Origin
Australia, Tasmania
Soil type
Well-draining, tolerant
Habit
Tufted grass, upright

Care

Sunlight

Plant Anthosachne scabra in full sun for optimal growth and dense foliage. It tolerates partial shade but will develop a less compact habit. Make sure your planting site receives good light for at least 6 hours per day.

Watering

Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system. Once established, this grass is relatively drought-tolerant. During active growth, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter.

Soil and Drainage

Anthosachne scabra prefers well-draining soil and dislikes waterlogged conditions. It adapts to various soil types (sandy, loamy, chalky) as long as they don't retain moisture. Improve heavy soils with sand or gravel.

Pruning and Cleaning

Cut back dry and damaged culms in late winter or early spring, before growth resumes. Remove dead foliage to maintain a neat shape and encourage new shoots. Regular brushing is usually enough to remove dry parts without major intervention.

Fertilizing

Apply balanced or grass-specific fertilizer in spring when growth restarts. A single annual application is usually sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which can promote unbalanced growth at the expense of stem strength.

Pests and Diseases

Anthosachne scabra is relatively disease-resistant if drainage is good. Watch for root rot risks in waterlogged conditions. Specific pests are rare; good cultural practices are usually enough to keep it healthy.

Did you know?

Anthosachne scabra, native to Tasmania, gets its name "scabra" from its slightly rough leaf surface to the touch. This grass is prized in Australia for its role in ecological restoration and land stabilization, demonstrating its remarkable adaptation to difficult environments.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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