Canberra Grass

An Australian native plant that occurs naturally in New Zealand as well is Canberra Grass. In fact it is not a grass and has an appearance like moss but is from the same family as the carnation (Family Caryophylloceae).

Plant Details

Common name: Canberra Grass (in some states)
Botanical name: Scleranthus biflorus. The genus name Scleranthus comes from the Greek meaning hard flower and the species name biflorus simply means it flowers in pairs.
Description: Grows as low attractive mounds of what looks like green moss. It is most effective near rocks and between stepping stones. It is grown for its lush green colour, foliage and texture.
Climate: Canberra Grass grows best in cool to semi-tropical areas.
Uses: ground cover around rockeries and stepping stones garden edges
Likes: full sun to retain its compact form good drainage protection from frost and wet in winter

Cost and availability

Scleranthus biflorus (Canberra Grass) is available in 15cm (6") pots and ranges in price from $6-$8. Check with your local native nursery but it could be difficult to find. The following nurseries in Sydney and Melbourne will have plants available:

NSW
Sydney Wildflower Nursery (West)
241 South Street
Marsden Park, 2765
Phone: (02) 9628 4448

VIC
Kuranga Native Nursery
393 Maroondah Highway
Ringwood, 3134
Phone: (03) 9879 4076 or fax: (03) 9870 7301

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