Xanthorrhoea

Grass Tree, Blackboy

Palm-like growth generally consisting of a trunk with a grass like tussock on top; leaves are normally long and thin (needle like), commonly a deep tap root makes transplanting very difficult. 

Uses

Feature plants - used for architectural affect in gardens and parks. Occasionally container plants (large, deep containers)

Culture

Many professionals in the horticulture industry claim that plants transplanted from the bush are difficult to establish and will, over a long period of time (up to 10 years), gradually die.
They are particularly susceptible to root rots, so drainage is important. They are very long lived, drought tolerant, require well drained conditions, prefer sandy soils, tolerate low soil fertility, and have a slow to medium growth rate. 

Propagation

Fresh seed germinates very easily. Spray seedlings with fungicide to control root rots, and keep plants well spaced for good ventilation.

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