How to Grow Grass Tree
Wikimedia Commons
Grass Tree
Xanthorhiza preissii
treeXanthorhiza preissii, commonly known as Grass Tree or Balga, is a distinctive Australian native plant featuring a thick, dark trunk topped with a dense crown of long, narrow, grass-like leaves. This iconic species is extremely slow-growing and can live for several centuries, making it a prized ornamental for Mediterranean and warm climate gardens. It produces spectacular tall flower spikes with cream to yellow flowers during spring.
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Example Grass Tree timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Grass Tree
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Grass Tree
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Grass Tree dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11, tolerating dry Mediterranean and subtropical climates
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Get my Grass Tree timeline →Growth Stages
Juvenile Growth
5-15 yearsTrunk begins to form and expand slowly; leaf crown gradually enlarges and becomes denser
Reduce watering frequency. Remove any dead or damaged leaves. Maintain excellent drainage. Avoid fertilizer.
Pre-flowering
5-10 yearsPlant reaches 3-6 feet tall with substantial trunk diameter and full leaf crown; approaching reproductive maturity
Maintain dry conditions. No supplemental watering needed except in severe drought. Do not fertilize or amend soil.
Flowering
4-8 weeksTall flower spike emerges from leaf crown in spring, reaching 3-6 feet tall, bearing hundreds of small cream to yellow flowers
Do not disturb during flowering. Support heavy flower spikes if needed in windy areas. Flowers attract birds and pollinators.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; remove infested leaves; treat with horticultural oil if severe; improve air circulation
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Spray with water to dislodge; ensure good drainage and low humidity; rarely requires intervention
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Prevention is key—ensure perfect drainage and avoid watering established plants; remove affected plant if root rot occurs
Uses
Architectural focal point
OrnamentalXanthorhiza preissii serves as a dramatic statement plant in Mediterranean, xeriscape, and contemporary gardens, providing distinctive vertical form and texture year-round. Its unique silhouette and impressive flowering display make it a living sculpture. [source]
Bird and pollinator magnet
WildlifeThe tall flower spikes attract native birds, bees, and other pollinators, providing essential nectar sources in arid climates. The dense foliage also offers shelter for local wildlife. [source]
Long-lasting cut flowers
HouseholdFlower spikes can be harvested for dramatic dried flower arrangements that last many months without wilting, making them exceptional for indoor décor. [source]
Aboriginal cultural significance
CraftXanthorhiza species have deep cultural importance to Australian Aboriginal peoples, used traditionally for shelter, food, and ceremonial purposes. Modern gardeners appreciate this heritage. [source]
Sustainable low-water landscaping
EcologicalAs an extremely drought-tolerant native, this species is ideal for sustainable gardens in water-scarce regions, requiring no supplemental irrigation once established. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested. Flower spikes can be cut for long-lasting floral arrangements in spring if desired. Seeds develop in mature flower heads but are rarely collected for propagation by home growers.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Xanthorhiza preissii grows remarkably slowly—often only 1-2 feet in a decade—but can live 600+ years in its native Australian habitat, making it one of the longest-living plants in the Southern Hemisphere.
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Grass Tree,' it is not a true grass but rather a unique flowering plant in its own family, making it a living fossil that has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.
- 🌱 The flower spike can weigh over 100 pounds when fully developed and may exceed 6 feet in length, creating a spectacular spring display that is visible from considerable distances in the landscape.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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