A short-lived perennial grass which is adapted to low fertility soils. Common in many older pastures throughout New Zealand, especially in the South Island.

  

Identification

Stiff-looking plant which tends to grow in compact tufts. The leaf blades join the pseudostem at near right angles. The tiller base is a yellow/brown colour, as opposed to red in perennial ryegrass. Seed head is flat on one side.

 

Characteristics

Tolerates a wide range of soil types, but avoids both acid and alkaline extremes.