Native grasses are the backbone of Australian landscapes, combining natural beauty with practical functionality. Incorporating these resilient plants into your garden design can transform any space into a stunning, low-maintenance retreat that thrives in our unique climate. At Kuranga Native Nursery, we’ve spent over 50 years working with and studying these remarkable species. Now, we’re proud to share our expertise with you through our tailored approach to Australian native grasses garden design.
Why Choose Native Grasses?
- Not only drought-tolerant but also water-wise, making it a smart choice for sustainable gardens.
- Perfect for low-maintenance landscapes, especially when paired with Australian native grasses for a cohesive, easy-care garden design.
- Add year-round visual interest with seasonal texture, foliage movement, and changing tones.
- Best of all, it supports local wildlife and biodiversity, attracting birds, bees, and beneficial insects to your garden.
- Perfect for both small gardens and large landscapes
Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra)
The iconic Australian native grass that brings character to any garden
- Height: 30-70cm
- Form: Upright, arching stems forming a soft, tussocked shape
- Flowers: Delicate, drooping spikelets emerge on long stems
- Seasonal Interest: Green foliage year-round, with flowering stems turning from purple to copper
- Best for: Full sun positions
- Maintenance: Annual trim in late winter
- Expert tip: Plant in groups of 3-5 to create a natural, flowing movement in your garden. The interplay of multiple plants creates a stunning wave effect when caught in the breeze.
Weeping Rice-grass (Microlaena stipoides)
Your solution for shaded areas and lawn alternatives
- Height: 20-50cm
- Features: Soft, weeping foliage
- Best for: Shaded areas and under trees
- Maintenance: Minimal – responds well to regular mowing
- Expert tip: Ideal for replacing traditional lawn in dappled shade with Australian native grasses garden design
Common Tussock-grass (Poa labillardierei)
The perfect choice for structured garden designs
- Height: 60-90cm
- Features: Dense, architectural form
- Best for: Borders and mass plantings
- Maintenance: Remove old foliage in late winter if needed
- Expert tip: Excellent for creating natural barriers and defined garden spaces
Design Applications
Create your dream native garden with these practical applications:
- Natural Meadow Gardens – Combine a variety of native grass species to create a flowing, organic look that mimics the beauty of natural bushland.
- Modern Minimalism – Opt for single-species mass plantings to achieve a clean, structured aesthetic that suits contemporary garden designs.
- Wildlife Gardens – Support biodiversity by attracting native birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects with thoughtfully selected native grasses.
- Erosion Control Solutions – Naturally stabilise slopes, banks, and disturbed soils with the deep root systems of native grasses—perfect for both form and function.
- Soft Border Definition – Use grasses to define garden edges with gentle movement, texture, and a sense of rhythm throughout the seasons.
Seasonal Care Guide
Spring
– The ideal time for planting new native grasses
– Water regularly while plants establish strong root systems
– Keep an eye out for competing weeds; gentle hand weeding is best
Summer
– Once established, minimal watering is required—even during hot spells
– Admire the striking seed heads that bring movement and interest
– A great time to appreciate their natural drought resilience
Autumn
– Gradually reduce watering as the weather cools
– Top up mulch around the base if needed to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Winter
– Trim back any old or untidy growth to refresh the plant’s form
– A perfect season to plan your next plantings
– Maintenance is minimal, allowing the garden to rest
Getting Started
Visit us at Kuranga Native Nursery to explore our extensive collection of native grasses. Our expert horticulturalists are available to help you select the perfect varieties for your garden conditions and design goals. Australian native grasses garden design is our specialty.
Location: 118 York Road, Mount Evelyn, Victoria
Hours: Open daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Expert Advice: Available in-store or through our plant consultation service
Browse Our Native Plant Collection →
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Connect & Learn More
Official Resources
- Visit Our Website – Browse our complete collection of native plants and grasses
- Kuranga Facebook Page – Follow us for daily gardening tips and seasonal updates
- Kuranga Instagram – See native grasses in action through our visual galleries
Research & Scientific Resources
