Wallaby Grass: An Australian Import for Water-Wise Gardens
If you’re looking to add some fine-textured charm to your drought-tolerant garden, you might want to get acquainted with wallaby grass (Rytidosperma). This perennial grass brings a touch of the Australian outback to American landscapes, though it comes with some considerations worth discussing.
What Exactly Is Wallaby Grass?
Wallaby grass is a tufted perennial grass that forms neat clumps of slender, fine-textured foliage. Originally from Australia and New Zealand, this grass has made its way to parts of the United States, particularly California, Hawaii, and Oregon. As its name suggests, it’s the kind of grass that wallabies would munch on in their native habitat – though you’re more likely to see it swaying gently in a Mediterranean-style garden than feeding marsupials.
Native Status and Where It Grows
Here’s where things get a bit complicated. Wallaby grass is considered non-native to the United States, having been introduced from its homeland Down Under. In Hawaii, it’s established itself quite well and reproduces on its own in the wild. Its status in the lower 48 states is less defined, but you can find it growing in California and Oregon.
Should You Plant Wallaby Grass?
This is where the plot thickens a bit. Since wallaby grass isn’t native to North America, it won’t provide the same ecological benefits as our homegrown grasses. However, it’s not currently listed as invasive either, which puts it in that neutral territory of introduced but not necessarily problematic.
If you’re drawn to its fine texture and drought tolerance, you might want to consider some native alternatives first:
- Buffalo grass (Poaceae species) for western regions
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) for prairie-style landscapes
- Bunch grasses native to your specific region
That said, if you do choose wallaby grass, it can serve as an attractive ornamental addition to water-wise gardens.
Growing Wallaby Grass Successfully
If you decide to give wallaby grass a try, here’s what you need to know about keeping it happy:
Growing Conditions
Wallaby grass is pretty easygoing when it comes to growing conditions. It thrives in well-draining soils and can handle both full sun and partial shade. Once established, it’s quite drought tolerant – a trait that makes it appealing for water-conscious gardeners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
This grass generally does best in USDA zones 8-10, which explains why it’s found primarily in California, Oregon, and Hawaii rather than colder northern states.
Planting and Care Tips
The good news is that wallaby grass is relatively low maintenance. Here are some key care tips:
- Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency
- It may self-seed, so keep an eye on spread if that’s a concern
- Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor
- No special fertilization requirements – it’s quite content with average soil
Wildlife and Pollinator Considerations
As a wind-pollinated grass, wallaby grass doesn’t offer much in the way of nectar or pollen for bees and butterflies. Its wildlife benefits are also limited compared to native grasses that have co-evolved with local fauna over thousands of years.
The Bottom Line
Wallaby grass can be a decent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant grass with fine texture and gentle movement. However, since it’s not native and doesn’t provide significant ecological benefits, consider exploring native grass alternatives first. If you do choose wallaby grass, plant it responsibly and keep an eye on its spread to ensure it doesn’t become problematic in your local ecosystem.
Remember, the most sustainable gardens are often those that work with nature rather than against it – and that usually means starting with plants that call your region home.
