Grass Trees are very slow growing with mature plants being centuries old. Grass Trees only grow in Australia. These remarkable plants have a lifespan of 600 years but are very slow-growing. The trunk takes a decade to form initially as it is composed of a mass of old leaf bases held together by a natural resin. It is then a further 20 years or more before the mass of thin, linear leaves rises above it. From then on, it grows only about 1-2cm (0.4-0.8in) in height per year. Plants have been observed which have taken 27 years to grow 30 centimetres (one foot). This plant grows to a height of over 4 metres and often has branches. It’s growth rate is only about 1 metre every 100 years. However, the flowering stalk grows at a rate of 2 – 3 cm per day reaching to a height of over 3 metres. Mature plants will result in flowering every 2 – 3 years. The Grass Tree attracts a wide range of lizards and insects that shelter in the plant’s massive foliage. The flowering spear of the plant attracts honey eating birds, bees, ants, and butterflies.
The location is a place where hundreds, and at times thousands of people a day stop for a rest while traveling the Hume Hwy. I wonder how many though, are aware that there is a short walking path which will take you through a stand of the best grass tree specimens you are ever likely to see anywhere in Australia. Take the time to have a look at these fantastic native plants, its well worth it. Don't let your kids or your wife sit in the car while you get this cache. Show them some of Australia's delightful flora in all its glory.
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