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The grass tree is a plant that has a special place in the heart of many Australians. This unusual and iconic plant has been a part of Aboriginal history, colonial artworks and a modern day inspiration to landscape architects.
Description
Description
Many grass trees have thick, woody stems that can reach about 5 metres tall, though some species are low-growing. The dense flower spikes extend 3 metres or more into the air and often resemble those of the bulrush. The plants are adapted to wildfire, often having a thick layer of dead leaves to protect the stem from flames and heat. Many species of grass tree can be encouraged to flower after being exposed to fire.
Habitat
Habitat
Grass trees are found in all Australian states and territories, especially on the east and west coast. They are drought and frost tolerant plants. The grass tree mainly grows in soils that are very free draining and consequently low in nutrients. It survives in the most deprived soils, with a shallow root system, enabling it easily access nutrients from decaying matter, while storing all the food reserves in its stem.
Significance to Noongar culture
Significance to Noongar culture
The bases of the leaves are sweet and nutty, and the heart of the stem was also eaten. Noongar people would chop the top off the tree and scoop out the white pulp within. This pulp is used as a medicine for upset stomachs or eaten as food in times of shortage. Nectar was collected from the tall spike of flowers with a sponge made of stringy bark. At the base of the plant drops of a hard waterproof resin were collected, which served as a cement to fasten barbs in spears or stone axes to handles. The tough leaves were used as knives to cut meat
Balka Use and History
Australian Survival SchoolBalka Use and History
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