Poa Genus: A Guide to Native Australian Grasses

The Poa genus, a remarkable group of grasses, holds a special place in ecosystems worldwide with more than 500 identified species.

Native to various regions, including Australia, these grasses are not only integral to their natural habitats but also highly valued for their practical applications in modern landscapes.

Whether you’re exploring sustainable landscaping solutions or engaging in ecological restoration, Poa grasses deserve your attention.

Benefits of Poa Grasses

Ecological Significance

Poa grasses play a vital role in stabilising soils and preventing erosion. Their dense tussock formations act like nature’s nets, holding the soil firmly in place while allowing rainwater to filter gently through.

Beyond their impact on the ground beneath us, Poa grasses help foster biodiversity, serving as shelter and food for various native animals and insects. Birds and small mammals often nest or seek refuge in their soft, tufted blades, while their foliage serves as host for many butterflies and moths.

Their seeds (grains) are food for countless fauna and once those seeds fall out, their empty husks provide habitat for insects. They don’t have nectar, but their pollen feed a range of insects such as beetles and beneficial ants.

Cultural Relevance

For many generations, Australian native grasses, including those in the Poa genus, have been appreciated for their utility and sustainability. These grasses formed part of the natural fabric that Indigenous

Australians relied upon for traditional land management and, in some cases, as resources for tools, baskets, and mats. Today, their value extends into modern ecological solutions, providing modern Australians the same benefits as First Nations People.

Prominent Poa Species in Australia

Australia proudly hosts several native Poa species, each adapted to varying conditions across the continent. Three species you’re likely to see in Australian gardens are:

• Poa labillardierei (Common Tussock Grass): Known for its lush green tussocks, this species thrives in moist environments, from coastal regions to damp woodlands.
• Poa poiformis (Coastal Tussockgrass): A hardy survivor in coastal areas, this grass endures harsh salt sprays and sandy soils, making it perfect for dune stabilisation.
• Poa sieberiana (Grey Tussockgrass): Recognised for its greyish-green blades, this species flourishes in drier conditions, offering a valuable option for arid landscaping or restoration projects.

Each species has unique growth traits and environmental preferences. Common forms may be tough or weak in the urban landscape, depending on the specific conditions of your landscape. Ozbreed have focused on breeding varieties that are much tougher for use in the landscape.

Exotic Poa Species

While Australia’s native Poa species are well-loved for their ecological value, a few exotic poas have made their mark overseas and closer to home. Among the most notable is Poa annua, or winter grass, which is now found almost everywhere around the globe.

Its rapid-growing nature and adaptability might make it a useful grass in some contexts, but in Australia, it’s classified as an environmental weed in certain regions.

Other exotic Poas like Poa pratensis (Kentucky Bluegrass) and Poa trivialis (Rough Bluegrass) are commonly found in cooler climate lawns pastures, parks, and garden beds. They may be intentionally planted as a lawn grass seed but have both escaped the landscape and are naturalised in parts of the country.

Benefits of Native Poa Grasses in Landscaping

Low-Maintenance Heroes

When it comes to landscaping, native Poa grasses shine for their low-maintenance qualities. Generally, they appreciate a hard cut every few years in late winter, which can be done with a hedge trimmer or brushcutter. The clippings can be chopped and dropped as mulch.

Some species exhibit exceptional drought resistance, making them ideal for gardens and public spaces across Australia. Unlike water-intensive grasses, Poa grasses tend to adapt well to dry spells, requiring minimal care once established.

Aesthetic Appeal

The soft, waving tussocks of Poa grasses add a natural elegance to any setting. Their subtle movement in the wind and ability to fill empty spaces with texture and colour have made them a popular choice for native garden designs.

Robust Roots

Like many true grasses and other strappy plants, poas have a fibrous root system that is excellent at holding the topsoil together. This helps prevent erosion, improves soil quality, and provides exudates to the biota below ground.

Tips for Growing and Maintaining Poa

Planting

To cultivate Poa grasses, it’s best to plant them during cooler autumn months or early spring when soils retain more moisture to help them establish. Choose a location that matches the species’ preferences — for example, a sunny spot for dryland varieties or a shaded area for moisture-loving types.

Watering & Maintenance

Poa grasses require minimal watering once their roots are established. However, a little care during their establishment phase ensures stronger, healthier plants. Routine maintenance such as trimming back old growth in late winter helps rejuvenate the tussocks for the upcoming seasons.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Fortunately, Poa grasses are naturally hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases. Maintaining good airflow around the plants and avoiding waterlogging will reduce the risks of fungal issues. Should you encounter trouble, opt for an Integrated Pest Management plan that uses the least harmful controls possible.

Poa Grasses in Ecological Restoration

Poa grasses are a linchpin in ecological restoration efforts across Australia. One of their standout features is their ability to combat erosion, particularly on hillsides and riverbanks where soil loss can be most severe.

Additionally, their presence nurtures the gradual return of native flora and fauna, helping to rebalance the ecological scale in areas under stress.

Organisations and landowners often favour Poa varieties for seed dispersal in native grass seeding projects. Their rapid establishment and compatibility with other native plantings ensure long-term success in such initiatives.

By integrating Poa into restoration efforts, Australians can work towards the protection and renewal of their fragile landscapes.

High Performing Native Poas

Ozbreed has bred a number of outstanding Poa varieties, each with their own unique selling points.

Eskdale Blue™

Poa spp. ‘POL12’ PBR Trade Name Eskdale Blue™

Subtle blue and green tones provide interest in the arching foliage of this tough Poa. It establishes in weeks, with a deep strong root system. Save money with better establishment rates and short establishment timelines.

Kingsdale™

Kingsdale™ Poa poiformis ‘PP500’

Grey blue and green tones provide interest year-round for most years, with a hard prune before the growing season every year or few years. Ideal for slope erosion control, mass/mixed planting and providing that quintessentially Australian outback aesthetic.

Rustic™

Rustic™ Poa spp. ‘POL11’ PBR

Coppery brown tones appear much more quickly in this variety, providing rustic vibes for coastal and contemporary Australian landscapes. Makes new landscapes feel more mature and well-worn, with foliage that appears aged. Try to prune this one each year to give it a fresh new flush of blue-green foliage in late winter or early spring.

Daniel’s Wrap

From stabilising soil and supporting wildlife to adding movement to gardens without breaking the bank on maintenance costs, their contributions are substantial. For anyone looking to create sustainable landscapes or engage in ecological preservation, native Poa grasses offer an undeniable benefit.

Before you go planting any old Poa sp. choose a variety that suits your needs and will stand the test of time to avoid the disappointment of poor performance and plant death. Browse some of the best varieties here.