Arthropodium strictum. © Russell Best
Arthropodium strictum. © Russell Best
Plant growth form and habit: Tufted, grassy, tuberous herb, dormant in late summer or dry season.
Natural distribution: Grassland and open forest, eastern states.
Indigenous to greater Melbourne: Yes
Height category: 0.5-1m
Dimensions (height and width): 0.3-1 m x 0.3 m
Landscape features: Fragrant flowers/foliage, Edible
Flowering: Purple flowers, September to December.
Typical growth rate: Medium to slow
Light: Full sun, Partial sun
Drought: Average
Waterlogging: Average
Maintenance and cultivation notes: No special maintenance needs, though spent flower stems could be removed if desired.
Green roof suitability: Unirrigated 10-20 cm depth, Unirrigated > 20 cm depth, Irrigated < 10 cm depth, Irrigated 10-20 cm depth, Irrigated > 20 cm depth
Bees and butterflies nectar and pollen source: Likely attractive to native bees, hoverflies, and other nectar and pollen foraging insects.
Benefits: Nectar and pollen
Typical horticultural uses: Tubers are edible and can be eaten raw or roasted. Suitable for green roofs.
