How does Themeda Triandra respond to grazing?

Red grass, Themeda triandra, a species often locally abundant in areas preferred by bontebok, is potentially a good indicator of the anticipated change because, although it persists with moderate grazing, it is sensitive to localised intense grazing and will decrease on grazing lawns.

Where does Themeda Triandra grow?

The species has a particularly wide distribution; in Australia it is found in all states and territories, overseas it is found in Africa, Asia and the Pacific. It commonly grows in grassland and open woodland communities. Themeda triandra is a tufted perennial that can grow to 1.5 m tall and 0.5 m across.

What is the common name of Themeda Triandra?

kangaroo grass
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What is kangaroo grass used for?

Kangaroo grass is primarily used in making flour, and has been an important food for Indigenous Australians for thousands of years. As a crop, kangaroo grass grains were harvested and ground into flour and porridge.

What is the purpose of Themeda triandra grass?

Themeda triandra is a very important and well-known grazing grass that is palatable especially when young. In some parts of Africa it is used for thatching, but the forms found in southern Africa tend to be flimsy and not durable enough. In Lesotho and bordering areas it is used sometimes for thatching and some basketry.

How tall does Themeda triandra grow in South Africa?

It is a well-known grazing grass, forming, where dominant, the red grass or rooigrasveld (grasslands) in parts of South Africa. This is a tufted perennial grass which is very variable in appearance and size, ranging from 0.3-1.5 m in height.

Is the Themeda triandra plant endangered in Australia?

Although Themeda triandra itself is not endangered as a species it does grow in Temperate Grassland communities, which have been declared as endangered in the Australian Capital Territory and threatened in Victoria. The grasslands are under threat due to loss and fragmentation through inadequate land management practices.

When to cut back Themeda triandra for new growth?

The grass clumps do not need a lot of maintenance; dead leaves can be raked out and old seed heads removed from the base. If a neater appearance is required, the clumps can be cut back in early spring to encourage new green growth. This plant does not suffer any significant pest or disease problems.