Lomandra longifolia
Lomandra longifolia
Lomandra longifolia, or Spiny-headed Mat-rush, is a hardy, clump-forming perennial native to Australia, commonly found in a variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and riparian zones. Growing up to 1 meter tall and wide, it features long, arching, strap-like green leaves and produces small, fragrant cream to pale yellow flowers on short spikes during spring and summer.
This versatile plant thrives in well-drained to moist soils and tolerates full sun to partial shade, as well as challenging conditions like drought and frost. It is widely used for erosion control, as its dense root system helps stabilize soils on slopes and riparian zones. Spiny-headed Mat-rush is low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for native gardens, mass plantings, and landscaping projects. Its foliage provides shelter for small fauna, and its flowers attract pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
With its elegant form, resilience, and ecological benefits, Lomandra longifolia is a valuable addition to sustainable landscaping, revegetation projects, and native gardens.